Should Alberta Change Its Solution Gas Flaring Limits?

Official title: Solution gas flaring limit engagement

Closed Regulations & Permits Environment & Climate Natural Resources
Alberta reviewed its rules on burning off natural gas released during oil extraction. The province introduced flaring limits back in 2002—the only province in Canada with such rules. Industry groups and environmental organizations were asked about whether the current approach still works.

Why This Matters

Live near oil and gas operations? Flaring affects local air quality. These rules also shape how much methane—a potent greenhouse gas—gets released into the atmosphere. Alberta's approach could influence national standards.

What Could Change

Alberta may update its 2002 flaring limits based on industry and environmental feedback. New policy tools could change how operators report flaring volumes and what infrastructure investments are required. The province aims to maintain international best practices.

Key Issues

  • Is the current solution gas flaring limit policy still effective?
  • What infrastructure and cost supports do operators need?
  • How should flaring volumes be defined and reported?

How to Participate

  1. This consultation has closed. Feedback was collected through a webinar, stakeholder meetings, and an online form between October 9 and November 13, 2024.

What Happened

Industry associations, operators, and airshed organizations provided feedback through a webinar, stakeholder meetings, and an online form. Their input, along with government direction, informed policy tools and approaches for reviewing Alberta's solution gas flaring limit.