Suncor Energy is delaying its planned turnaround at Base Plant due to the surge in COVID-19 cases across the RMWB.

During a webcast held on Tuesday, Mark Little, President and CEO, said they won’t be focusing on this planned maintenance until at least June.

The annual turnaround would result in an increase in the workforce at the site, a location that currently has an active COVID-19 outbreak.

This along with the ongoing work already underway at Syncrude is forcing them to hold off at this time.

“This decision supports the completion of the Syncrude turnaround and minimizes the overlap between the two assets,” said Little.

He adds this delay is not expected to have any material impact on their machinery.

In the meantime, the company remains focused on getting COVID-19 under control.

Along with Base Plant, outbreaks have also been declared at Fort Hills, Firebag, Mackay River, as well as Syncrude’s Aurora and Mildred Lake sites.

The RMWB remains the worst in the province when it comes to spreading the virus.

Wood Buffalo is approaching 1,900 cases per 100,000 individuals, by far the most in Alberta.

“We continue to work with the community, with governments, and other industry players to accelerate rapid testing and now vaccinations in the region,” added Little.

Right now, those 18 and older can book an appointment to get their first COVID-19 test or visit the MacDonald Island Park walk-in clinic.

This is being expanded to those born in 2009 and earlier starting on Monday.