
Nicholas L.M Allen photo. Scene from a tour of the Grassy Mountain site taken on a community engagement tour on July 10, 2024.
Nicholas L. M. Allen
Jan 29, 2025
Changes allow for coal exploration while new policy takes shape renewing focus on Eastern Slopes.
The Alberta government has lifted its 2022 moratorium on new coal exploration and development in the Eastern Slopes of the Rocky Mountains. The decision was outlined in a letter from Energy Minister Brian Jean to the Alberta Energy Regulator (AER) on January 16, with the aim of “reducing regulatory confusion” surrounding coal activity in the region.
The ministerial order directs the AER to extend the expiry dates on existing permits and remove the suspension on approvals by January 31. While the government reaffirmed its commitment to the 1976 Coal Policy, which prohibits coal exploration and development on Category 1 lands such as parks and wilderness areas, the moratorium’s removal has reactivated exploration on other classified lands.
The province’s new coal policy, first announced in December, will require companies to demonstrate how they will prevent selenium contamination in nearby watersheds. This policy, however, is still under development following consultations with industry stakeholders.
The decision comes as five coal companies pursue legal action against the government, collectively seeking over $15 billion in compensation for what they describe as lost revenues and costs stemming from earlier policy reversals. The cases are expected to appear in court this spring, though legal experts suggest lifting the moratorium may impact the claims.
The Canadian Parks and Wilderness Society (CPAWS) Alberta chapter noted that the removal of the moratorium could lead to renewed exploration and development on more than 1,880 square kilometres of leased land. Among the projects in question is the proposed Grassy Mountain mine in the Crowsnest Pass, which continues to move through the regulatory process.
In a statement, the government emphasized that the policy shift does not immediately authorize new projects.
“This does not open the door for coal development projects hoping to get approval before the new rules come into force,” the statement said, adding that the AER must consider the incoming policy during its evaluations.
Critics, including conservation groups, have raised concerns about the potential environmental impact of resumed coal exploration. They note that clarity on the government’s new coal policy is still forthcoming, leaving questions about the framework that will guide future projects.
The Alberta Energy Regulator has confirmed it will comply with the directions outlined in the ministerial order and will continue implementing new policy directives as they are provided by the government. Further updates on the coal policy and its impact on the Eastern Slopes are expected in the coming months.