Premier Notley, energy minister head to Texas to promote energy trade

Rachel Notley, Alberta premier. Photo: Rachel Notley/Facebook.

Alberta supplies 34% of US oil imports, 99% of US natural gas imports

Alberta’s energy sector and deep trade ties with the United States will be the main focus as Premier Rachel Notley and Energy Minister Margaret McCuaig-Boyd head to Houston March 6-8 for CERAWeek, a major American energy conference.

Marg McCuaig-Boyd, Alberta energy minister.

Notley will participate in a panel discussion on energy and the environment, meet with energy executives and policy-makers to highlight investment opportunities in Alberta’s oil and gas sector, and promote the province’s Climate Leadership Plan.

“Alberta is the US’ largest and most trusted energy partner and the American economy greatly benefits from the contribution of our energy exports,” said Notley in a press release.

“Missions like this are critical to build face-to-face connections with key players around the world, support our oil and gas industry and create new opportunities.”

McCuaig-Boyd will also attend the conference to meet with key US “influencers” and heavy oil refiners to promote expanded market access and investment opportunities for Alberta oil sands producers.

Alberta Energy says the minister will emphasize the “interconnected nature” of North American energy development and transport.

She will also learn more about energy trends that will shape the market for Alberta’s resources and in-bound investment.

Premier Notley will also visit Austin to meet with Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, as well as companies and researchers involved in one of the leading innovation hubs in the U.S.

The Alberta Government estimates the international mission cost for the Premier, three political staff, one public servant and a security detail is approximately $48,400. This estimate also includes carbon offsets that were purchased for each member of the delegation.

The cost for the energy minister, one political staff member and one public servant is $23,897.

Quick facts

Alberta supplied approximately 34 per cent of US crude oil imports in 2016.
That same year, Canada – primarily Alberta – provided 99.6 per cent of the crude oil imported into PADD 2, fuelling the economy of the US Midwest.
Alberta is the largest supplier of natural gas to the US, supplying 99 per cent of all US imports, which account for approximately 11 per cent of the American market.