Aggreko, global leader in temporary power, temperature control and oil-free compressed air, last week strengthened its Canadian operations by acquiring all the assets of Power Plus Rentals & Sales, based in Leduc, Alberta. Power Plus is a rental power specialist that provides services to businesses in the Athabasca Oil Sands in Alberta and Saskatchewan, where more than CN $10 billion per year is being invested in the development of the world’s second-largest oil reserve.

The acquisition provides Aggreko with access to skills and experience in designing and operating equipment in extremely cold environments, including remote camp sites, and strengthens its ability to service customers in the oil, gas and refining industries.

“The combination of our background in the oil and gas industry and the increased demand for services like ours in the oil sands of Canada makes this a promising market for Aggreko,” said George Walker, president of Aggreko North America. Aggreko’s Canada Business Unit also has service centers in Toronto and Sarnia, Ontario, and Edmonton, Alberta.

“Aggreko recognizes that Power Plus is a leader in service and support for its industry,” added Walker. “We believe it makes solid business sense for us to come together to build an even stronger local brand with substantial global expertise behind it. Together, under the Aggreko name, we will have more people and resources to provide superior service and support in the oil and gas sector in Western Canada and possibly beyond.”

The acquisition will bring 34 Power Plus employees into Aggreko’s business, including 22 technicians.

Power Plus was founded six-and-a-half years ago by David Lassu, who will continue as a consultant for two years.

In addition to Aggreko’s involvement in the oil sands activity, it was named in May the Official Supplier of Power and Temperature Control for the Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

Based in Scotland with North America headquarters in Houston, Aggreko is No. 13 on the RER 100.