Regulatory Approval Processes for Major Capital Projects - A Better Way

2004

Terry Bachynski,

Over the last decade a remarkable evolution in the regulatory approvals process has occured in Alberta relating specifically to major capital projects in the oil sands industry. Some of the impacts of the changes in that industry can also be seen in other resource development areas such as power generation and coal development. In some ways, industry has become its own worst enemy in its approach to pursuing approvals for resource development. This paper will discuss the evolution of stakeholder consultation and engagement, quality and quantity of detailed environmental and technical information expected as a part of the regulatory approvals process, federal / provincial government engagement and the increasing complexities associated with securing the necessary approvals from all levels of government for major capital projects. This paper will also discuss current initiatives to improve the regulatory process in Alberta and suggest alternative approaches to maximize the value of effective regulatory review of proposed resource development.

Keywords: Regulatory, First Nations, Major Projects, Approvals, Oils Sands, Development, Environmental, mines, consultation, Stakeholders