Alberta brings new legislation to prevent violation of export regulations

The Government of Alberta has introduced the Preserving Canada’s Economic Prosperity Act, which seeks to curtail the export of natural gas, crude oil and refined fuels across its borders.

Under the legislation companies exporting energy products from Alberta could be required to obtain a licence.

The government also intends to give more power to the Minister of Energy to impose penalties up to $1m per day on firms violating export regulations.

The move is projected as a retaliatory measure against the British Columbia (BC) Government’s opposition to the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion. The government noted that roadblocks created by BC have resulted in a loss of revenue.

Alberta Premier Rachel Notley said: “This is about protecting the jobs and livelihoods of thousands of Albertans and our ability to keep Canada working.

“We did not start this fight, but let there be no doubt we will do whatever it takes to build this pipeline and get top dollar in return for the oil and gas products that are owned by all Albertans.”

The proposed limitations on export are expected to include pipelines and transport via rail or truck.

Alberta’s Minister of Energy Margaret McCuaig-Boyd said: “Every day, we’re leaving money on the table due to a lack of pipeline capacity, and that needs to stop.

“The powers in this legislation are not powers Alberta wants to use, but we will do so if it means long-term benefit for the industry, for Alberta and for Canada.”

Last year, Alberta exported 7.2 billion cubic feet per day of natural gas. The province exports around 80,000 barrels per day of refined fuels to BC.