An oilsands operator in northern Alberta has been ordered to shut down due to repeated failures to meet its regulatory obligations.

The Alberta Energy Regulator has issued an order requiring Calgary-based Sunshine Oilsands Ltd. to suspend its wells, facilities and pipelines following a string of infractions dating back more than two years.

The order, issued Nov. 14, requires the operator to post a security deposit of more than $6.1 million, which represents 100 per cent of the company’s estimated inactive liability.

The order highlights a series of infractions related to the company’s West Ells facility, inclu