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.
Energy & Mining Fact Sheet
Check out our fact sheet for more information about energy and mining in the Edmonton Metropolitan Region.
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.
Industry ready
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.
Clean Tech
Differing from alternative energy, cleantech 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.
Cleantech 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.
Read More
Showcasing Alberta’s AI advantage
Newly released white paper explores the Edmonton Metropolitan Region’s potential as a ‘hydrogen node’
Government of Canada invests in Alberta’s construction industry to help strengthen energy efficiency and green building practices
ATCO TO BUILD ALBERTA’S FIRST HYDROGEN BLENDING PROJECT WITH ERA SUPPORT
RJ Maclean – Disrupting the status quo to bring innovation to the energy industry
$58 MILLION ANNOUNCED FOR NATURAL GAS INNOVATIONS WORTH $155 MILLION
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