Suncor cuts capital spending, axes 1,000 jobs on oil price
Suncor cuts capital spending, axes 1,000 jobs on oil price
CALGARY, Alberta -- Suncor Energy has announced significant reductions to its 2015 budget and the loss of about 1,000 jobs in response to the current downdraft in oil prices.
The cuts include a C$1 billion decrease in the company's capital spending program, as well as sustainable operating expense reductions of C$600 million to C$800 million to be phased in over two years offsetting inflation and growth.
Suncor is implementing a number of initiatives to achieve the cost reduction targets. These include deferral of some capital projects that have not yet been sanctioned, such as MacKay River 2 and the White Rose Extension, as well as reductions to discretionary spending. Budgets affecting the company's safety, reliability and environmental performance have been specifically excluded from the cost reduction program.
Suncor has also implemented a series of workforce initiatives that will reduce total workforce numbers in 2015 by approximately 1,000 people, primarily through its contract workforce, in addition to reducing employee positions. There will also be an overall hiring freeze for roles that are not critical to operations and safety.
Major projects in construction, such as Fort Hills and Hebron, will move forward as planned and take full advantage of the current economic environment. These are long-term growth projects that are expected to provide strong returns when they come online in late 2017.
"Our integrated model and strong balance sheet have positioned us well for the price downturn," said Steve Williams, president and CEO. "Cost management has been an ongoing focus, with successful efforts to reduce both capital and operating costs well underway before the decline in oil prices. However, in today's low crude price environment, it's essential we accelerate this work. Today's spending reductions are consistent with our commitment to spend within our means and maintain a strong balance sheet. We will monitor the pricing environment and take further action as required."
Suncor's production guidance for 2015 has not changed.
