Alberta will cut methane emissions under its own proven regulatory system, supporting jobs, investment, and responsible energy development.

Alberta’s government and the Government of Canada have reached an agreement-in-principle allowing the province to continue regulating methane under its existing system while achieving a 75 per cent reduction from 2014 levels by 2035.

Methane emissions in Alberta have already dropped more than 50 per cent from 2014 levels, thanks to strong provincial rules, world-leading measurement and monitoring, and made-in-Alberta technology. The new agreement sets a clear path for further reductions while keeping the system practical, cost-effective, and tailored to Alberta’s economy.

“Albertans have long known that responsible energy development and strong environmental performance go hand in hand. This agreement reflects that approach, keeps decision-making here in Alberta and builds on a system that is already delivering results. We will keep lowering emissions while supporting the energy sector that drives our province forward.” — Danielle Smith, Premier

“Canada is strongest when we work together. By partnering with Alberta on a methane equivalency agreement, we will cut emissions while ensuring we protect Canadian jobs and build a more competitive and resilient energy sector.” — Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada

The agreement will be implemented through an outcome-based equivalency under the federal Environmental Protection Act. Alberta’s methane regulations are expected to remain in place for the next decade, achieving the 2035 target. Without the agreement, overlapping federal and provincial rules could increase costs, duplicate effort, and undermine Alberta’s competitiveness. Emissions reductions will be verified by an independent third party approved by both governments.

A roadmap outlines how Alberta plans to reach the 75 per cent reduction target through existing and planned regulations and complementary measures. The plan relies on real industry data, targeted regulatory updates, and proven methane-reduction strategies already in place.

“Alberta has a proven track record of achieving practical, affordable emissions reductions while supporting competitiveness and economic growth. This agreement recognizes that leadership reduces red tape by keeping methane regulation in provincial hands.” — Grant Hunter, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas

A draft equivalency agreement will be released for a 60-day public comment period later this year, with finalization expected by the end of 2026. This is the second of four agreements under the Alberta-Canada memorandum of understanding aimed at strengthening energy development cooperation while keeping Alberta a global leader in responsible resource production.

“Methane regulations are most effective when developed within the jurisdictions where companies operate, and Alberta is well-positioned to deliver an approach that reflects operational realities. Tourmaline is pleased to continue advancing efforts to enhance the world-leading performance of the Canadian natural gas industry in mitigating methane emissions.” — Mike Rose, President and CEO, Tourmaline Oil Corp.

Quick facts

• The agreement-in-principle will be implemented through Alberta Energy Regulator oversight.
• New rules take effect Jan. 1, 2030.
• The agreement replaces the current Alberta-Canada methane equivalency agreement, set to expire in October 2030.
• Alberta was the first jurisdiction in Canada to set a methane reduction target, achieving a 45 per cent reduction from 2014 levels in early 2022.
• Alberta has invested roughly $172 million in methane reduction technology since 2019.
• More than 58,000 low- or no-bleed devices have been installed through Alberta’s carbon offset system.

Information for this article was sourced from the Government of Alberta website.