Energy Processing
Upgraders, refineries, and petrochemical plants are an important part of an expanded, sustainable and prosperous economy. Energy processing allows Alberta to leverage our traditional energy commodities by accessing new and expanded markets for processed and refined energy products. By producing higher value energy products from raw resources, Alberta's economic base is diversified, Albertans have access to high-paying jobs located throughout the province, and Crown revenue streams are expanded through increased property, corporate and personal income tax.
In pursuing the full value of our non-renewable natural resources, the Government of Alberta will promote the expansion of energy processing in the province as a priority to the long-term economic benefit of the province.
Energy processing involves producing higher valued products from raw resources, rather than selling them at the first marketable point. The importance of energy processing in Alberta is identified in a number of provincial policy documents.
1. Provincial Energy Strategy : shows how energy processing adds value and provides significant benefits to the province and Canada including wealth and job creation, economic diversification, and hedging against future downturns.
2. Responsible Actions Oil Sands Strategy : maps out the goals and objectives for Alberta in maximizing the long-term value of oil sands for all Albertans. The policy highlights that “…Alberta’s energy future will only be realized by balancing economic opportunities with environmental, social and infrastructure challenges. Alberta will optimize oil sands development and the full economic value for all Albertans while addressing environmental and social needs.”
3. Land Use Framework : Focuses on managing growth and sustaining Alberta’s economy while balancing environmental and social goals. The Framework identifies the need for short, medium and long-term transportation and utility corridors to support industrial growth and supports consolidating a number of critical land-use functions within a pre-defined area.
