In October 2020, the Government of Alberta introduced Bill 36: Geothermal Resource Development Act. Under that act, which has not yet been proclaimed, the Alberta Energy Regulator (AER) will have the authority to regulate the safe, efficient, and responsible development of Alberta's geothermal resources.
The AER is seeking feedback on their proposed new Directive XXX: Requirements for Geothermal Resource Development. The draft directive sets out the requirements that industry must follow for geothermal resource development that is below the base of groundwater protection and covers the entire development life cycle, from initiation through to closure. Directive XXX introduces processes and requirements that are unique to geothermal energy while incorporating applicable oil and gas regulatory instruments.
To provide feedback on the draft directive, complete the comment form available on the directive's webpage. Feedback or questions on the directive should be sent by email to geothermal@aer.ca. Feedback will be accepted through September 3, 2021. All feedback received will be reviewed and may be used in finalizing the directive. All of the comments provided through this consultation will form part of the public record and, at the discretion of the AER, any comment received may also be attributed to the specific individuals providing it.
Personal information provided with comments will be collected, used, and disclosed in accordance with the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act. The AER may use the personal contact information provided for follow-up communication related to your feedback.
The draft directive is available on the AER website, www.aer.ca > Regulating Development > Rules and Directives > Directives. For more information, contact their Customer Contact Centre by phone at 403-297-8311 (1-855-297-8311 toll free) or by email at inquiries@aer.ca.