A "control well" is a coalbed methane or shale gas well that has been designated as representative of wells in the area. Starting in 2006, operators of these wells were required to report pressure, productivity, and gas content information for gas found in coal and shale. These data were used to help us better understand these gas resources. Our understanding of coalbed methane and shale gas has now increased to the point where we no longer require these data for resource evaluation or reserves analysis.
As a result, the Government of Alberta has repealed sections 7.025 and 11.145 of the Oil and Gas Conservation Rules, which defined control wells and prescribed what data had to be reported. We are today also rescinding Directive 062: Coalbed Methane (CBM) Control Well Requirements and Related Matters, which gave additional details and process information. Amendments to related instruments are in progress.
These changes mean that control wells will no longer be designated, and the particular data these wells reported will no longer be submitted. All other reporting requirements remain unchanged. There is therefore no effect on public safety, environmental protection, or resource conservation.
For more information, please contact our Customer Contact Centre by phone at 403-297-8311 (1-855-297-8311 toll free) or by email at inquiries@aer.ca.
