This release was issued under a previous government.

“We can’t live in the past. We need to build an economy of the future. That’s why I’m excited to have a diverse and talented group on board to provide their insights and expertise on how we can make better use of our wealth of energy resources. No other place in the world has the incredible range of energy resources that Alberta has, and we need to take a good look at how we can better use it all to create more jobs and investment for Albertans.”

Margaret McCuaig-Boyd, Minister of Energy

The Energy Diversification Advisory Committee’s mandate is to engage Albertans and explore opportunities to increase the value of energy resources, create jobs and attract new investment. This includes such value-added ideas as partial upgrading, refining, petrochemicals and chemicals manufacturing.  

The creation of the committee follows directly from Alberta’s Royalty Review Advisory Panel, which recommended that the province seize opportunities to diversify the energy industry and better position Alberta for long-term success. The committee includes entrepreneurs, labour leaders, First Nations business leaders and energy industry experts.

“We’re working together to create jobs and diversify Alberta’s economy. North America needs an energy leader for the 21st century – and I want it to continue to be us. Our province is uniquely positioned to lead on value-added oil and gas products – creating jobs and a more resilient, diversified economy for generations. I’m proud we have some of the world’s best talent to help us do that.”

Deron Bilous, Minister of Economic Development and Trade

Committee members are:

  • Co-chair Jeanette Patell, government affairs and policy leader, GE Canada
  • Co-chair Gil McGowan, president, Alberta Federation of Labour
  • Carol Moen – registrar, Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta
  • Warren Fraleigh – executive director, Building Trades of Alberta
  • Leo de Bever – chair, Oak Point Energy
  • Marie C. Robidoux – principal consultant for Aboriginal Relations and Business Development, EGCL
  • Rocky Sinclair – CEO, Alberta Indian Investment Corporation

“I am delighted to have the opportunity to contribute to this important work.  My energy experience in North America and Europe underscores how vital collaboration and innovation is to understanding where we can develop new opportunities and industries.  I will bring this approach to the committee in order to provide the very best advice to government based on what we hear from the energy sector, other stakeholders and Albertans themselves.”

Jeanette Patell, co-chair, Energy Diversification Advisory Committee

“Having been a long-time supporter of the energy industry and the tremendous employment opportunities it offers Albertans, I am confident this committee can offer new ideas to help build a stronger and more diverse energy sector to the benefit of both working people and companies. I look forward to rolling up my sleeves and getting to work on these important issues.”

Gil McGowan, co-chair, Energy Diversification Advisory Committee

The committee brings together a diversity of expertise and will meet with a variety of stakeholders to make recommendations in a report to the Energy minister in the fall of 2017. The committee will engage the public so Albertans can provide input on the future of energy diversification in the province. Public engagement details will be announced at a later date.

The committee’s budget is $150,000 for the year, which covers committee expenses in line with existing government policy. It will receive administrative, engagement and research support from existing government staff.