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Alberta Legislature (Canadian Press file photo)
Memorandum Of Understanding

Province says partnership with Japan will champion Alberta energy

Nov 23, 2021 | 12:08 PM

Alberta has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation to expand market access for Alberta’s energy sector.

Officials say the MOU, signed by Premier Jason Kenney and Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation (JOGMEC), renews a commitment to natural resource cooperation and development, including improving cooperation on environmental technologies like hydrogen, ammonia, and carbon capture, utilization and storage.

The agreement is also expected to focus on increasing Alberta’s investment attraction activities with Japan, strengthening efforts to get Alberta energy products to tidewater.

“This agreement demonstrates Alberta’s role as a global supplier of clean, responsibly produced energy. Alberta’s abundant resources and long history of technology, innovation and responsible development help us solidify our position as an important trading partner, helping drive economic growth right here at home,” said Premier Jason Kenney, on Monday.

“The signing of this agreement highlights the importance of Alberta’s relationship with JOGMEC. We look forward to continuing to collaborate with JOGMEC on responsible natural resource development while advancing Alberta as a top destination for responsible energy investment through the Invest Alberta Corporation and the Alberta Japan Office,” added Doug Schweitzer, Minister of Jobs, Economy and Innovation.

“Alberta is a global leader in responsible resource development and we continue to advance our reputation as a pioneer of emerging technologies, including clean hydrogen and carbon capture, utilization and storage. Building on Alberta’s existing strengths and abundant resources, agreements like this further develop these emerging technologies so that Alberta can help meet growing global demand,” noted Dale Nally, Associate Minister of Natural Gas and Electricity.

By attracting investment, provincial officials say Alberta is anticipated to be a global leader in new and emerging industries.

Quick facts

  • JOGMEC is a state-owned enterprise under Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, which is mandated to secure a stable supply of energy and resources for Japan.
  • In 2020, bilateral trade between Alberta and Japan was approximately $2.2 billion.
  • In 2020, Alberta’s exports to Japan totalled approximately $2 billion and included the major exports of energy, agriculture and forestry.