A start-up company in Sussex has designed a new drill rig called The Rhino.
It will be used by oil sands exploration production companies in Alberta.
Advanced Heli Core Inc., is currently testing the drill in Dieppe to make sure it’s ready once it’s transported to Alberta.
The Rhino is one third the size of a conventional drill and can be set up and transported using a medium lift helicopter.
The Government has provided a repayable contribution of $500,000 to help with project costs.
The Honourable Rob Moore was on hand for the announcement made earlier today in Penobsquis.
The first rig is scheduled to be shipped by truck to Alberta in July where it will be tested onsite.
A single Rhino rig will be capable of drilling 75 wells per year, compared to 15-25 per year for a typical rig.
