Ryan Murphy, Integrated Sustainability Consultants
GL 13-AU-WIPC-05
Assess collaboration opportunities between industry producers around the use of water in shale gas production. Regulators involved with the governance of shale gas development in Western Canada have indicated that they expect industry producers to begin using water collaboration strategies to reduce their environmental impact. Barriers to collaboration on water infrastructure currently exist, including regulations that prevent water license partnerships. This project will access opportunities for future collaboration between shale gas producers, such as consolidating infrastructure needs and sharing water access rights. Feedback from shale gas producers and research of water regulations will be examined to opportunistically decrease the environmental impact of water use and associated infrastructure.
Policy Issue
Assessment of alternate sources of water for unconventional oil and gas development considering the entire life cycle.
Knowledge Gap
Upcoming amendments to the Water Conservation and Allocation Policy/Guideline for Oilfield Injection will likely include additional requirements for proponents to consider when applying for licenses to use non-saline water. One of these requirements is likely to complete an environmental net effects assessment of the various water source alternatives. There are no assessment tools developed to complete this evaluation. Supports CAPP Hydraulic Fracturing Operating Practice #5: Water Sourcing, Measurement and Reuse.
