Stricter rules for renewable projects called unfair compared to oil and gas obligations [Video]

The seven-month moratorium on Alberta renewable projects is ending, but industry experts say the introduction of stricter rules creates uncertainty and unfair standards compared to the obligations of oil and gas companies.

Developers of renewable projects will be responsible for clean-up costs and must secure a bond or security with the government.

Mark Dorin, the Polluter Pay Federation’s vice-chair, says that’s good news, but should also apply to non-renewable projects.

“I think it has to be fair across the board and it’s just not right now,” he said.

“Alberta has $260 billion, not $30 billion as the premier said in her press release yesterday, of unfunded oil and gas liabilities to deal with in this province. So, while it’s good that they may be requiring some security deposits for renewables, we still have a much bigger problem with oil and gas to tackle.”

Vulcan County Reeve Jason Schneider says his …