For over 80 years, Alberta has been at the forefront of energy and resource regulation, overseeing some of the world’s largest energy and mineral assets. The Government of Alberta’s policies give us authority to regulate and ensure the efficient, safe, orderly, and environmentally responsible development of the province’s extensive energy and mineral resources. However, our regulatory responsibilities go beyond applications, enforcement, and overseeing of energy and mineral resource development. We continually look for ways to modernize our regulatory system so that it is efficient, adaptive to the global market, and demonstrates Alberta’s competitiveness.
How We Regulate
Explore our role in overseeing energy and resource development across the province, using our integrated decision approach to assess high-risk activities and apply appropriate regulatory oversight at the right stage of the project life cycle. From liability management to incident response, learn more about what we regulate, what is outside our jurisdiction, and who’s responsible for what.
Project Lifecycle
Every development project—no matter what resource is involved—has a four-stage life cycle: initiate, construct, operate, and close. We regulate all aspects of energy and mineral resource development, from exploration to remediation, in accordance with provincial policies.
Engagement and Events
Access information on our Indigenous engagement process and how the Multistakeholder Engagement Advisory Committee’s feedback enables us to engage more meaningfully with different groups and Indigenous communities. Sign up for OneStop training or find a community meeting near you on our event listing.
Resource Development Topics
Find educational summaries on the types of energy and mineral resources the AER regulates, including the processes involved in their development and the AER’s requirements for ensuring the public and environment are protected.
Pipeline Safety
Learn how the AER regulates pipelines to keep Albertans and the environment safe.
EnerFAQs and Fact Sheets
Find answers to frequently asked questions and learn more about our regulatory role as Alberta’s sole regulator of energy and resources.
