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Canada and Alberta reach agreement-in-principle on methane equivalency

OTTAWA, ON, Mar 25, 2026 (CNW Group via COMTEX) --

The world is changing rapidly. In response, Canada is transforming its economy to be more resilient, competitive, and prepared for a low-carbon future. A key part of this effort is reducing emissions from the oil and gas sector and ensuring Canadian energy remains a reliable and responsible choice in global markets. By working with provinces and territories, Canada is cutting pollution, driving innovation, and supporting high-paying careers â?? strengthening its position as a global energy leader.

Methane has a warming impact far greater than carbon dioxide, and lowering Canada's methane emissions is an essential and cost-effective way of reducing greenhouse gases without impacting production. Furthermore, it is an essential part of our plan to strengthen Canada's position in global energy markets, as global customers prioritise low-carbon oil and gas.

That is why, today, the Government of Canada and the Government of Alberta announced an agreement-in-principleÂ to lower emissions of methane in the oil and gas sector. Building on the NovemberÂ 2025 Canada-Alberta Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), this new agreement includes the objective of reducing methane emissions by 75% below 2014 levels by 2035 in Alberta.

Under the proposed framework, Alberta would implement a performance-based approach that combines regulations, offset credits, and targeted investments. Canada therefore intends to continue to work with Alberta to develop an equivalency agreement under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999, whereby federal methane regulations would be stood down in Alberta, provided that the necessary equivalent emissions reductions are realised.

The agreement-in-principle commits to:

Once Alberta and Canada arrive at an equivalency agreement, it will undergo a 60-day consultation period, with the goal of finalising it by the end of the year and implementing it no later than JanuaryÂ 1, 2027, for a 10-year period, subject to legislative amendments. Alberta's existing equivalency agreement will remain in place until the new agreement is finalised.

Reducing methane emissions by the oil and gas sector is one of the most effective ways to achieve near-term climate benefits. Canada's enhanced methane regulations also reduce air pollutant emissions, which means cleaner air for Canadians living near oil and gas activities. This agreement will provide regulatory certainty while supporting innovation and emissions reductions across the sector.

Canada and Alberta continue to make good progress on all the elements of the MOU. This work will extend over the coming weeks to ensure it is done right. Both governments are focused on moving forward as quickly as possible to provide certainty.

Together, we are building a stronger, more sustainable, more independent Canadian economy. At this pivotal moment, federal-provincial cooperation is enabling practical, outcome-based approaches that provide regulatory certainty and support growth, innovation, and emissions reductions across the energy sector.

Quotes"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. This is how we build a stronger, more sustainable, and more independent Canadian economy â?? by driving innovation, reducing pollution, and positioning Canada as the world's supplier of choice for responsibly produced energy."â?? The Rt. Hon. Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada

"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."â?? The Hon. Danielle Smith, Premier of Alberta

"Strong partnerships with provinces and territories are essential to building a sustainable and competitive Canada. Through this new agreement, Canada and Alberta are taking steps to reduce methane emissions with clear, measurable actions that also strengthen the energy sector. By working together, we are taking real steps to protect the environment, to create good jobs, and to reinforce Canada's global reputation as a reliable and responsible energy producer."â?? The Hon. Dominic LeBlanc, President of the King's Privy Council for Canada and Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade, Intergovernmental Affairs, Internal Trade and One Canadian Economy

"Methane reductions are some of the fastest, most cost-effective ways to protect our environment while growing our energy sector so we can deliver energy security for Canada and our allies. This agreement-in-principle with Alberta shows the Team Canada approach in action, provides clarity and flexibility for producers, and reinforces Canada's reputation as a responsible energy superpower."â?? The Hon. Tim Hodgson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources

"The Canada-Alberta agreement-in-principle builds on a history of successful federal-provincial collaboration on methane. A new equivalency agreement with Alberta will provide certainty for investors, strengthen competitiveness, support good jobs, and drive investment in clean energy and technology. This agreement demonstrates a strong continued collaboration between the governments of Canada and Alberta on oil and gas emissions reductions, which is key to building a prosperous and responsible energy future for all Canadians."â?? The Hon. Julie Aviva Dabrusin, Minister of the Environment, Climate Change and Nature

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