News
Infrastructure Works
VIDEO: Alberta Moves to Slash Red Tape with Expedited Approvals Act
April 15, 2026
New legislation would speed up the approval of major projects in Alberta. Talking Points
Alberta's government has introduced Bill 30, the Expedited 120-Day Approvals Act, aimed at accelerating the approval process for major projects to a maximum of 120 days. The legislation targets projects with a minimum capital investment of $250 million that align with provincial priorities and are deemed strategically important.
To qualify, proponents must complete environmental impact assessments and Indigenous consultations, maintaining Alberta’s duty to consult. Minister of Energy and Minerals Brian Jean emphasized the need for faster approvals to enhance Alberta's energy sector amid growing global demand.
- Bill 30 aims to streamline project approvals in Alberta.
- Projects must meet specific criteria, including a $250 million investment.
- A new project co-ordination review team will oversee applications.
This legislation is significant as it seeks to attract investment back to Alberta, countering previous losses and positioning the province competitively in the global energy market.
New Alberta legislation would speed up the approval process for major projects.
If passed, Bill 30 (the Expedited 120-Day Approvals Act) would establish a 120-day approval time frame to accelerate major project development.
The Alberta government states the legislation sets clear criteria, application requirements, approval processes and timelines for proponents, regulators and government. To qualify, projects must align with provincial priorities, be of strategic economic importance and involve a minimum capital investment of $250 million.
To be considered for a qualified designation, project proponents will also be required to complete, or have substantially completed, the environmental impact assessment process and Indigenous consultation. The legislation does not change Alberta’s duty to consult.
“The world needs Alberta oil and gas now more than ever. Taking action to accelerate the approval process is critical for Alberta to unleash its energy potential and ensure a sustainable sector for decades to come,” said Brian Jean, Minister of Energy and Minerals, in a prepared statement.
According to the provincial government, delays and duplication in project approvals have driven investment away from Canada, including $12 billion in energy investment to the U.S. in 2025 alone. At the same time, global demand for Alberta’s energy continues to grow. Faster approvals will help Alberta secure investment, grow production and expand access to global markets.
A review and support process would be established through a newly-created project co-ordination review team within Executive Council to assess major project applications and make recommendations to a committee of deputy ministers. When a qualified project is approved by the committee, cabinet will designate qualifying projects through an order-in-council. The issuance of the order-in-council would trigger a 120-day approval clock for the regulators, with the same timeline requirement applying for all subsequent required permits upon receipt by the regulator.