Press Release
Apr 03, 2025
Alberta’s government is taking a leadership role to address mature energy assets in our province.
Today, the government released the Mature Asset Strategy: What We Heard and Recommendations Report, which outlines 21 recommendations to help manage the growing number of oil and gas assets nearing or at the end of their productive life.
The strategy supports Alberta’s goal of maintaining economic growth, attracting investment and enhancing its reputation as a responsible energy producer. It focuses on the long-term management of inactive wells, orphan wells and other legacy infrastructure, particularly in communities affected by the shift from conventional oil and gas to oilsands and fracking in northern Alberta.
“Supporting the work of cleaning up orphan wells and implementing a new mature asset strategy will complement the efforts that Alberta is already taking to help accelerate the clean up of inactive wells and sites across Alberta. That said, I am committed to ensuring that no taxpayer dollars go to private companies to clean up their wells.”
Brian Jean, Minister of Energy and Minerals
The report reflects some of the perspectives of a diverse range of stakeholders, including municipal governments, landowners, Indigenous communities, regulators, producers and industry experts. Alberta’s government is reviewing the recommendations and will provide more information on which recommendations it intends to implement and how, in the coming months.
“Alberta’s energy industries have changed faster this century than the ability of all stakeholders to keep pace and adapt. The major shift from mature conventional production to non-conventional resources like oil sands and shale gas – and how it has affected many Albertans – required a thorough investigation. Responsible management of where we’ve been is an essential foundation for where we’re going.”
David Yager, chairman, Mature Asset Strategy Engagement
“The Alberta Small Producers Group is appreciative of the opportunity to participate in the development of the mature asset strategy. As a group, we are very excited to continue to help the province grow while maximizing the resources for the benefit of Canadians and Albertans.”
Terry Schmidtke, chairman, Alberta Small Producers Group
The oil and gas sector has helped establish Alberta as the economic engine of Canada. While most companies meet their obligations, some fail due to economic challenges, leaving orphan wells and unpaid taxes or landowner surface rents. Addressing these liabilities is a government priority to ensure long-term environmental and economic sustainability.
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