NEB Streamlines Its Gas Export License Review Process
The Canadian National Energy Board has issued an Interim Memorandum of Guidance announcing a review of its regulations for assessing oil and gas export and import licenses and interim governing guidance. The interim guidance: (1) eliminates mandatory public hearings; (2) establishes a new standard for assessment, which shall be that the quantity of gas (or oil) to be exported shall not exceed the surplus remaining in Canada after due allowance for the reasonably foreseeable needs of Canadians; (3) eliminates the requirement that export license applicants file information on the environmental effects of the proposed exports and any related social effects; and (4) eliminates the NEB’s ability to place conditions affecting environmental protection and restoration on export licenses.