The provincial government has approved three oilsands projects it says will bring in $4 billion of potential investment. It’s cleared the proposals for projects from Blackpearl Resources, Surmont Energy and Husky Energy in the Fort McMurray region, but it’s unclear if any will move forward.
They are reportedly the first to be approved since the NDP introduced a 100 megatonne greenhouse gas emissions limit on oilsands emissions. The all clears come after multiple environmental assessments, and consultations with local Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. The Alberta Energy Regulator also recommended their approval.
The companies have the final say on whether they choose to invest.