Who Owns Esso?

Imperial Oil's sustainability initiatives apply to Esso operations across Canada.

Carbon Reduction: Imperial Oil has committed to achieving net-zero Scope 1 and 2 emissions from its operated assets by 2050, with interim targets for 2030. The company's Strathcona refinery is being upgraded to produce renewable diesel, which can reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 80% compared to conventional diesel.

EV Charging Infrastructure: Imperial Oil has partnered with FLO, Canada's largest EV charging network, to install Level 2 and DC fast charging stations at select Esso locations. The partnership aims to deploy charging infrastructure at hundreds of Esso stations across Canada over the coming years, converting traditional fuel stations into multi-energy hubs.

Environmental Compliance: Esso service stations implement environmental management systems, including spill prevention programs, underground storage tank monitoring, and vapor recovery systems. Imperial Oil complies with Canadian environmental regulations, including fuel quality standards under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act and provincial regulations.

Biofuels: Esso stations in Canada sell gasoline blended with ethanol (up to 10% in most provinces) and diesel blended with biodiesel, in compliance with federal and provincial renewable fuel regulations. Imperial Oil's refineries produce these blended fuels to meet regulatory requirements.

Esso's brand heritage and Imperial Oil's operational record have been recognized within the Canadian petroleum industry. The brand has been featured in Canadian marketing and consumer research for its longevity and recognition as one of Canada's most familiar fuel brands. Imperial Oil has received industry recognition for safety performance at its refineries and retail network.

Environmental Incidents and Spills: Esso service stations have experienced fuel spills and underground storage tank leaks over the decades, requiring cleanup and remediation. Imperial Oil has implemented comprehensive spill prevention programs and improved monitoring systems. Legacy contamination at some older station sites has required environmental remediation under provincial regulations.

Climate Change and Fossil Fuel Criticism: As a fossil fuel brand, Esso faces ongoing criticism from environmental organizations regarding its contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. Climate advocacy groups have targeted Esso and Imperial Oil in campaigns calling for faster transition to renewable energy. Imperial Oil has responded by investing in renewable diesel, EV charging infrastructure, and carbon reduction initiatives, though critics argue these investments are insufficient relative to the company's core fossil fuel operations.

Fuel Pricing Scrutiny: Esso has faced criticism from consumer advocacy groups regarding fuel pricing, particularly during periods of high gasoline prices. Canadian fuel retailers operate in a market where prices are influenced by global crude oil prices, refining margins, and taxes, but consumer groups have questioned pricing transparency. Provincial regulators have conducted reviews of fuel pricing practices, though no major findings of collusion involving Esso have been substantiated.

ExxonMobil Corporate Controversies: As a brand of Imperial Oil, which is majority-owned by ExxonMobil, Esso is indirectly associated with controversies involving its ultimate parent. ExxonMobil has faced lawsuits and regulatory actions related to climate change disclosures, including a 2022 lawsuit by the Massachusetts Attorney General alleging the company misled investors and consumers about climate risks. These controversies affect the broader ExxonMobil brand family, including Esso.

Indigenous Rights and Oil Sands: Imperial Oil's oil sands operations in Alberta, which supply feedstock for Esso fuel, have been the subject of criticism from Indigenous groups and environmental organizations regarding land use, water contamination, and treaty rights. Imperial Oil has engaged in consultation and benefit agreements with Indigenous communities near its operations, though disputes over oil sands development continue.