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ARTICLE · 22 AUGUST 2022

Powering Up: New Directive Advances Alberta's Geothermal Regulatory Framework

Blake, Cassels & Graydon LLP
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While the AER's press release on the Directive declares the geothermal regulatory scheme complete, uncertainties around issues such as royalties and public land dispositions remain.

CanadaEnergy and Natural Resources
Lars Olthafer
Lars Olthafer
Matt Hammer
Matt Hammer
Jacob Roth (Articling Student)
Jacob Roth (Articling Student)
Victoria Chiu (Articling Student)
Victoria Chiu (Articling Student)
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On August 15, 2022, a key missing element of the regulatory framework for the development of commercial electricity producing geothermal facilities in Alberta was addressed by the release of Alberta Energy Regulator (AER) Directive 089: Requirements for Geothermal Resource Development (Directive). The Directive provides guidance on the requirements for applications for the construction and operation of geothermal facilities. This bulletin outlines the overall scheme for geothermal development in Alberta now that applications can be made for geothermal facilities.

While the AER's press release on the Directive declares the geothermal regulatory scheme complete, uncertainties around issues such as royalties and public land dispositions remain.

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