Suncor will partner with Devon Energy and Suez (formerly GE Water) to demonstrate High Temperature Reverse Osmosis (HTRO) membranes for SAGD water treatment.
The project will validate the technology for application in high-temperature SAGD conditions. If successful, the membranes could eliminate the need to reduce the temperature and pressure of produced water prior to water treatment. A high temperature membrane plant could reduce the energy required and infrastructure for the SAGD water treatment process.
The technology has the potential to reduce GHG emissions by up to 5-10%, compared to a typical SAGD baseline facility. In addition, for new builds, the technology could reduce capital costs compared to conventional SAGD water treatment facilities.