Energy production is the economic backbone of the Edmonton Metropolitan Region. The region’s proximity to Alberta’s oilsands — the 3rd largest oil reserve in the world — has led to global investment and world-renowned innovation in this sector.
Energy businesses thrive in the region thanks to complex transportation and pipeline systems, as well as world-class infrastructure in Alberta’s Industrial Heartland. An energy pioneer, the region is home to a booming petrochemical industry creating new business opportunities, exploring cleantech innovations, and attracting billions in capital investment.
Prime location
The Edmonton Metropolitan Region is close to abundant energy resources including oilsands deposits, conventional fields, massive natural gas reserves, and coal sites. The region’s energy services sector is second to none. Many technologies and practices have been created here that are now used around the world. Conveniences in our own backyard have given the region a competitive advantage in research, innovation, equipment, and well-priced feedstock for downstream production.
Petrochemicals
With close access to feedstocks, the region has developed an extensive petrochemical industry. Oil and natural gas are piped into Alberta’s Industrial Heartland where they are manufactured into $13.5 billion worth of annual feedstocks like propane, ethylene, cellulose acetate, and polyethylene.
These petrochemical byproducts are used to manufacture everything from home insulation to engine oil, gasoline additives to recycled steel, medical equipment to rocket fuel.
Hydrogen Economy
Canada is strategically positioned to benefit from taking a leadership role in the transition to a net-zero hydrogen economy and the Edmonton region is well-suited to become Canada’s first hydrogen node.
In particular, the region is a good place for Canada’s first node because of its access to low-cost natural gas, existing experience in hydrogen production and carbon capture and storage, a vast network of pipeline infrastructure, a large talent pool of engineers and tradespeople, and engaged industries, governments, First Nations and university and college academics.
Clean Tech
Differing from alternative energy, clean tech focuses on reducing the overall environmental impact of traditional energy sources like oil and gas. Through emerging innovations, the Edmonton Metropolitan Region has the opportunity to improve energy production by serving as a global leader in sustainable energy practices.
Reducing energy consumption at drill sites through robotic drilling that uses solar-powered motors and natural gas generators instead of less-efficient diesel generators. New technologies also allow for offsite remote control and a reduction in manpower, disturbance and emissions.
New technology driving higher well production and reservoir recovery, better surface management, more recycling and reuse of fluid and the evaporation of produced water into clean steam instead of having to truck and pump it into disposal wells.
Using liquid natural gas (LNG) and other gas products at drill and mine sites instead of diesel and propane to reduce flaring and emissions.
Using high-efficiency gas generation units instead of coal-fired units. This results in increased flexibility and extended operating life, lowering emissions and production and maintenance costs.
Alternative Energy
The Edmonton Metropolitan Region is diversifying its stronghold in the energy sector by adding alternative energy to the mix. By 2030, it’s projected that 30% of Alberta’s electricity will come from renewable sources. The region is ready for industry breakthroughs by harnessing the potential of its climate, expertise, and manufacturing capabilities.
Post-secondary institutions and research facilities in the region are focused on alternative energy, providing the skills and talent to propel advancements in this field:
- The Northern Alberta Institute of Technology’s (NAIT) Alternative Energy Technology program trains students for careers in solar electric, solar thermal, geothermal, wind, hydro, bioenergy, and cogeneration.
- The University of Alberta has 7,000 students enrolled in energy and environmental programs.
Building equipment like solar panels and wind turbines to harness renewable energy requires a strong manufacturing presence. Given the region’s command of this sector, businesses will benefit from on-site servicing and production.
The Edmonton Metropolitan Region is a prime location for solar power. As the 3rd sunniest location in Canada, The region enjoys over 333 days of sunshine per year.
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