Japan Canada Oil Sands Limited (JACOS) is owned by Japanese interests. The major owner is JAPEX (Japan Petroleum Exploration Co., Ltd.) with an 93% share. JACOS started in the Athabasca area in 1978 when the company "farmed in" on leases held by Petro-Canada (Suncor), Canadian Occidental (Nexen) and Esso (Imperial Oil) to form what is referred to as the PCEJ group. All of these companies are currently active in pursuing oil sands development in the region.

JACOS and its partners experimented with a cyclic steam stimulation pilot project on the Hangingstone Lease from 1983 to 1994. From 1992 to 1997, JAPEX participated in the AOSTRA SAGD pilot experiments at the UTF (Underground Test Facility) site.

With the positive results from the UTF project, JACOS decided to further pursue SAGD technology at the Hangingstone site.

A 3-phased "Demonstration" project was designed and constructed with the first phase becoming operational in 1999. Current production is approximately 6,000 barrels of bitumen per day.

Mission Statement

To provide a long term and stable hydrocarbon supply to world-wide markets as a leading in-situ oil sands producer

This effort will be accomplished by:

• Performing all operations in a cost-effective manner;
• Attracting and retaining highly skilled and motivated individuals and being committed to their ongoing growth and development;
• Applying appropriate technologies;
• Making sure that everyone understands the key business drivers;
• Encouraging new ideas and fostering positive thoughts;
• Demonstrating effective communication by listening and responding to each other;
• Building and enhancing relationships with JAPEX and other stakeholders to improve decision making, technical awareness, understanding, and involvement.

Services & Supplies

Services and supplies are contracted out on a competitive basis. Local and aboriginal content is encouraged and contract opportunities will be posted on REDLINK (Regional Economic Development) whenever possible.