The governor of Colorado thinks Americans who oppose the proposed Keystone XL pipeline may be changing their minds.
John Hickenlooper has wrapped up a three-day visit to Alberta, which included a tour of the oilsands with Alberta International and Intergovernmental Relations Minister Cal Dallas.
Hickenlooper hasn’t taken a political stance in support of the pipeline, but said the public needs to focus on facts when it comes to Alberta oil. Its environmental footprint is roughly the same as that of similar products from California or Venezuela, but Alberta oil is safer to transport by pipeline and costs less.
Meanwhile, the governments of Alberta and Colorado have agreed to work together to share ideas, best practices and information related to cleaner energy.
“Expectations are high for North American energy producers and governments to continue to raise the bar on environmental management,” said Hickenlooper.
“Colorado looks forward to building a co-operative relationship with Alberta that will see both jurisdictions excel as continental leaders in responsible energy development.”
Dallas, who is the MLA for Red Deer South, praised Hickenlooper for spearheading a U.S. initiative to increase the use of natural gas vehicles. He said he’d like Alberta and other provinces to consider a similar initiative under the Canadian Energy Strategy.
Alberta exports, on average, $2.27 billion in products yearly to Colorado. More than 28 Colorado companies provide equipment, parts and services to the oilsands.