The Alberta oilsands sector is undergoing a transformative shift as new technologies are allowing oilsands projects to contribute to natural gas supplies rather than solely consuming them. The Northern Lights project, with a production capacity of 100,000 barrels per day, is set to play a key role in this shift. By producing hydrogen as a byproduct of its upgrader process, Northern Lights has struck a deal with fertilizer manufacturer Agrium Inc. This agreement enables Agrium to replace natural gas with hydrogen as a raw material for its operations near Edmonton. Apart from hydrogen, the oilsands upgrader will also yield nitrogen, carbon dioxide, and sulfur, which Agrium plans to utilize. The long-term supply contract negotiations between Agrium and Northern Lights are expected to finalize by the start of production in 2010. The move to hydrogen is not only cost-effective for Agrium but also ensures its competitiveness globally, especially against regions with lower gas prices such as the Middle East. The strategic choice of locations for new upgrader plants near Edmonton, as opposed to the traditional Fort McMurray region, is set to revolutionize Alberta's Industrial Heartland. This new approach enhances cost control, labor efficiency, and access to customers for the oilsands projects. Overall, the article highlights a positive trend in the oilsands sector, showcasing how innovation and strategic partnerships can lead to significant advancements in energy supply and industrial processes.