Faster Approvals for Low-Risk Pipeline Projects
Official title: Predictable and Efficient Processing and Assessment of Negligible-Risk and Low-Risk Activities
The Canada Energy Regulator wants to speed up approvals for low-risk pipeline activities. Right now, even minor work on company-owned land goes through the same review as major projects. The proposed "Rapid Review Process" would create simpler criteria and faster timelines for things like small modifications or decommissioning work that pose little risk.
Why This Matters
This mostly affects pipeline companies, not everyday Canadians. But if you work in the energy sector or live near pipeline infrastructure, faster approvals could mean quicker project timelines. For communities near aging pipelines, streamlined decommissioning rules could affect how quickly old infrastructure gets cleaned up.
What Could Change
The CER would replace two existing orders with a new "Rapid Review Process." Low-risk activities on fenced, company-owned land could skip lengthy reviews. New criteria would define what counts as "negligible-risk" versus "low-risk." Decommissioning applications for minor work would also get a faster track.
Key Issues
- What criteria should define 'negligible-risk' versus 'low-risk' activities?
- Should activities on company-owned, fenced land qualify for simplified review?
- How should the simplified process work for decommissioning applications?
How to Participate
- This consultation is now closed. Feedback was accepted from July to October 2024 via email to efficiency_project@cer-rec.gc.ca.