This release was issued under a previous government.

Incident details

  • On August 2, 2012, hydrogen sulphide gas was released from the CNRL Horizon upgrader facility.
  • Environment and Sustainable Resource Development (ESRD) started an investigation after receiving reports of high ambient air monitoring readings in the area and complaints from residents of the community of Fort MacKay.
  • CNRL had various communications with ESRD and the Fort McKay First Nation as a result of the hydrogen sulphide gas release.

Enforcement Action

The charges, under the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act, include:

  • release of a substance causing a significant adverse effect;
  • failure to ensure complete combustion at the flare stack, release of an unapproved substance, and failure to report approval contraventions;
  • providing misleading information to the Director and the Fort McKay First Nation; and,
  • failing to properly report the contravention and release to the Director and the Fort McKay First Nation.

Each charge carries the possibility of a fine of up to $500,000. 

Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development focuses on education, prevention and enforcement to ensure all Albertans continue to enjoy a clean and healthy environment.

When individuals or companies fail to comply with legislation, Alberta Environment and Sustainable Resource Development has a range of options, depending on the offence, to ensure compliance with environmental regulations.

Related information

Compliance enforcement actions