CALGARY — The Energy Resources Conservation Board has approved Petro-Canada’s (TSX:SU) plan to drill 11 sour gas wells, construct processing operations, and build two pipelines in southwestern Alberta.
The provincial energy regulator placed 15 conditions on the approvals, including enhanced emergency planning measures, increased noise and groundwater monitoring, and implementing further environmental protection measures.
The company also made more than 300 commitments during regulatory hearings, which took place in late 2008 and early 2009.
Industry critics had expressed concerns about poisonous sour gas carried through the pipelines and flaring, or burning off, of gas.
Petro-Canada’s parent Suncor Energy Inc., is Canada’s biggest integrated oil and gas company with operations that include the oilsands, conventional and offshore oil and gas, refineries and gasoline stations.
Shares in Suncor gained 16 cents to close at $31.95 Tuesday on the Toronto Stock Exchange.