In layman's terms, I believe that current maximum production is limited because it currently takes more steam to produce a barrel of bitumin than planned. As a result, unless means can be found to lower the amount of steam needed, (downhole pumps, 100 % capacity steam production, fewer/shorter planned shutdowns, better quality output etc), Pod1 will never produce at the planned 10,000 bbl/d capacity. In 2010 for instance, the company is aiming for an average SOR (Steam/Oil Ratio) of 3.2. This translates into 8500 bbl/d (27,000/3.2 =8437.5) of production from Pod1. Note that this is their target. If steam production falters, or other problems arise, it will not be possible to meet this target.

This is exactly what I meant. Well put. They are not talking about having the steam required for 27,000 barrels per day of bitumen extraction, IMO.