Shell Exploration & Production in the Americas (NYSE: RDS.A; RDS.B) has established Sure Northern Energy Ltd., a Canadian corporation, to evaluate and potentially develop heavy-oil resources secured in the Feb. 8 Alberta Department of Energy oil sands public offering. Sure Northern acquired 10 parcels of land for C$465 million (around US$400 million) through a land agent. Appraisal wells are being planned for this year. "This move represents a distinct opportunity to assess new and emerging technology. It complements our existing strong position in Canadian oil sands through Shell Canada Ltd.," says Marvin Odum, executive vice president of Shell EP, Americas.