Alberta’s energy sector is getting a regulatory overhaul as the province aims to burnish its environmental reputation and show it has a firm hand on the torrid pace of oil and gas development.
The revamp comes at a crucial time: The energy-rich province has faced criticism for its environmental regulations, penalties, and enforcement rules and track record.
Opponents of the oil sands argue that the province has weak policies and that development of future projects, including pipelines crucial for expanding Canada’s energy industry, should be blocked. They are lined up against the Keystone XL pipeline and two proposals to move bitumen to British Columbia’s coast, while a trade spat is brewing between Canada and the European Union over oil sands exports.
The regulatory makeover faces numerous challenges. The government is folding all regulatory powers, now scattered among separate bodies, into one entity, dubbed the Alberta Energy Regulator.
Carrie Tait – Globe and Mail – May 13, 2013.
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