The government of Alberta announced Friday that it has assembled an independent panel of experts to examine the province’s royalty and tax regime to ensure Albertans are receiving a fair share from energy development through royalties, taxes and fees.

The review will focus on all aspects of the royalty system, including oilsands, conventional oil and gas, and coalbed methane. “Albertans made it clear to me that a thorough and objective review of the royalty regime is a priority,” said premier Ed Stelmach. “Albertans must be confident that the royalty structure will meet the needs of the province as we work together to build a stronger Alberta.”

Chaired by Bill Hunter, former president of Al-Pac with more than 30 years experience in the natural resource sector, the six-member Royalty Review Panel also includes experts in resource taxation and the royalty system. The panel will collect input from Albertans and key stakeholders. Beginning in April, the panel will host a series of public meetings in Calgary, Edmonton, Fort McMurray and Grande Prairie.

A final report with recommendations will be presented to the Minister of Finance by August 31.

“The government’s goal is to ensure the royalty framework strikes the right balance,” said
Dr. Lyle Oberg, Minister of Finance. “We need to be certain that the royalty regime is providing Albertans with a fair return on the province’s natural resources while maintaining an internationally competitive system that allows the Alberta economy to continue to prosper.”