On July 17, 2023, the government of British Columbia enacted B.C. Reg. 187/2023, aimed at streamlining energy resource management and enhancing environmental oversight. Following an Order in Council approved by the Lieutenant Governor and based on recommendations from the Minister of Energy, Mines, and Low Carbon Innovation, this regulation took effect on September 1, 2023.

The regulation introduces several key changes, starting with regulatory updates that replace outdated terms and provisions to align with the current energy regulatory framework. Notably, the Oil and Gas Commission has been rebranded as the British Columbia Energy Regulator, reflecting a broader focus on all energy resources, not just oil and gas. Additionally, the definition of “oil and gas activity” has been updated to “energy resource activity,” expanding the scope to encompass various forms of energy extraction and management. Clarifications have also been made regarding activities such as the diversion of deep groundwater under the Water Sustainability Act.

Amendments to the Environmental Protection and Management Regulation redefine essential terms to better align with contemporary environmental practices. This includes the removal of the term “oil and gas road,” replaced with more inclusive terminology that covers various energy resource roads. Furthermore, changes to provisions related to geothermal resources clarify that the definition of “energy resource activity” excludes certain water use unless it pertains to deep groundwater.

Organizational changes have also been implemented, establishing various governmental bodies, such as the British Columbia Energy Regulator and the Energy Resource Appeal Tribunal, with clearly defined leadership roles. This update clarifies the administrative structure overseeing energy resource activities. Additionally, numerous other regulations have been amended to replace references to the “Oil and Gas Activities Act” with “Energy Resource Activities Act,” signaling a shift toward a more inclusive regulatory approach concerning environmental management, land use, and resource extraction.

The overarching goal of these changes is to create a more integrated and environmentally responsible framework for managing energy resources in British Columbia. By broadening definitions and updating organizational structures, the government seeks to address the complexities of modern energy production while maintaining robust environmental protections. 

British Columbia (187/2023) July 14, 2023