Alberta suspends sour gas drilling

[CHIMO]

The government agency that regulates Alberta's oil and gas industry Tuesday temporarily suspended the issuing of licences for sour gas projects.

The move followed a court ruling that may have far-reaching effects on the industry and on the rights of people living near sour gas wells.

Sour gas contains hydrogen sulphide, which can be fatal, even in small concentrations. It occurs naturally as a result of the decay of organic matter, and is present in one-third of Alberta's natural gas wells.

Before gas can be moved through the pipeline system, the hydrogen sulphide must be removed not only because it's poisonous but also because it is highly corrosive.

http://www.cbc.ca/canada/calgary/story/2009/11/03/alberta-suspends-sour-gas-drilling.html