Access to markets, talent and capital dominate oilsands top 10 risks list in 2013: Ernst & Young

New risks and opportunities create a dynamic environment for oilsands players in year ahead

CALGARY, Dec. 17, 2012 /CNW/ - Above the ground — or below — opportunities and challenges in Canada's oilsands sector, particularly around access to markets, talent and capital, are creating a new environment for players, according to Ernst & Young's annual report, Exploring the top 10 opportunities and risks in Canada's oilsands 2012-13.

"Rising supply and falling demand from the US, market access and infrastructure constraints, cost inflation, and labour availability are atop our annual risks list. These are clear signals that companies urgently need to tie down new long-term customers, attract and retain talent, and seek new and creative capital sources," says Barry Munro, Ernst & Young's Canadian Oil and Gas Leader.

But accessing new markets requires significant investment in infrastructure — and fast. Joint ventures and strategic partnerships are becoming more attractive to companies looking to accelerate resource development, particularly in light of Canada's new oilsands foreign investment rules.

"Accelerating growth without giving up competitive advantage is a balancing act," says Lance Mortlock, Partner in Ernst & Young's Oil and Gas practice. "Securing adequate returns on investment requires companies to have a complete understanding of their risk profile and risk appetite. Successful partnerships should protect your company's competitive resources while furthering your position in the marketplace."

Collaboration enables companies to share costs and mitigate a number of this year's top risks by sharing leading practices in areas such as technology, environmental reclamation, social and economic performance as well as creating a common labour pool to maximize resources.

"With so many complex issues at play for oilsands companies, 2013 will be a very dynamic year," says Munro. "Winners and losers will emerge as company executives and boards grapple with their strategic choices."

Canada's oilsands will continue to play a critical role in world supply and energy demand but success in the year ahead won't come easily.

Top 10 risks for oilsands companies in 2013:						Top 10 opportunities for oilsands companies in 2013:
1.			Rising supply and falling demand in the US			1.			Global demand is growing
2.			Market access and infrastructure constraints			2.			Oilsands remain economically important to Canada
3.			Cost inflation			3.			Canada remains an attractive place to do business
4.			Labour availability			4.			Technological innovation advances
5.			Environmental impact			5.			Environmental awareness is increasing
6.			Reputation management			6.			Foreign interest is growing
7.			Large upfront capital investment			7.			Project activity is increasing in a controlled way
8.			Changing policy and regulations			8.			The business model is evolving
9.			High demand for water			9.			Players are working together
10.			First Nations relations			10.			US remains a key customer

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SOURCE: Ernst & Young

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