CALGARY, Oct. 30, 2013 /CNW/ – The National Energy Board (NEB or Board) today released its letter, and terms and conditions to approve ConocoPhillips’ application for an Operations Authorization (OA) to drill two wells on Exploration Licence area EL470 near Norman Wells, Northwest Territories. This is the first horizontal fracturing (fracking) authorization in the North issued by the Board.
ConocoPhillips first sought approval from the Sahtu Land and Water Board (SLWB) prior to applying to the NEB. On 11 June 2013, the SLWB completed its Preliminary Screening under the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act (MVRMA) and issued a Land Use Permit and Water License for the project. ConocoPhillips then applied to the NEB for an OA.
The Board recognizes the importance of fostering better understanding and communication with all stakeholders that take part in Board processes and engaging Canadians is a priority. Since 2011, NEB staff have conducted over 25 public information and community engagement sessions in the North on how the NEB regulates hydraulic fracking.
The National Energy Board is an independent federal regulator of several parts of Canada’s energy industry. Its responsibilities under the Canada Oil and Gas Operations Act (COGOA) include safety, protection of the environment and conservation of resources.
This news release and the Operation Authorization terms and conditions are available on the NEB’s Internet site at www.neb-one.gc.ca under What’s New!
For a copy of the Reasons for Decision:
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SOURCE Government of Canada
For further information:
Erin Dottor (erin.dottor@neb-one.gc.ca)
Communications Officer
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Telephone (toll free): 1-800-899-1265
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