2005/34 (a)

BACKGROUNDER

Petroleum Technology Research Centre

The Regina-based Petroleum Technology Research Centre (PTRC) was founded in 1998 by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), Saskatchewan Industry and Resources, the Saskatchewan Research Council, the University of Regina and the Western Economic Partnership Agreement. The non-profit research and development corporation initiates and supports technology development, innovation and deployment to enhance the production and recovery of Canadian oil and gas resources.

The PTRC played a key role in the management of the initial phase of the four-year, $42-million International Energy Agency Greenhouse Gas Research and Development Programme's Weyburn Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) Monitoring and Storage Project, beginning in mid-2000. PTRC will lead the technical activities of the final phase of this project, which is anticipated to span a further four years.

In addition to funding for the CO₂ project, NRCan has provided the PTRC with $9 million for its Core Research and Development Program to develop innovations and new technologies for improved conventional and heavy oil recovery. Current Government of Canada contributions are approximately $1.5 million a year.

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