The Alberta Energy Regulator (AER) is entering the next phase of its emerging resources sector.
In December 2021, the Government of Alberta introduced Bill 82: Mineral Resource Development Act (MRDA). 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 mineral resources.
Directive 056: Energy Development Applications and Schedules has been updated to include geothermal and brine-hosted mineral development. It now enables well, pipeline, and facility licensing requirements for geothermal and brine-hosted minerals development. Consequential amendments related to Directive 089: Geothermal Resource Development released in August 2022 (see Bulletin 2022-25) have also been made, but input on Directive 056 during this public comment period should focus on the brine-hosted mineral content.
To provide feedback on the draft directives, complete the public comment form on their website, aer.ca > Regulating Development > Rules and Directives > AER Forms > Public Comment Form. Comments in other formats can be emailed to Minerals@aer.ca or mailed to Alberta Energy Regulator, Suite 1000, 250 – 5 Street SW, Calgary, Alberta T2P 0R4. Feedback will be accepted through October 31, 2022.
These proposed changes will align D056 with new mineral and geothermal requirements.
The 41-day public feedback period is open from September 20 to October 31, 2022.