Moving Forward by Overcoming the Legacies of Past Energy Systems Project

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This project aims to understand how institutional factors can influence the transformation of energy systems. To do so, we investigate changes in institutional arrangements within Alberta’s oil and gas sector by using a mix of inductive and deductive methods. For example, in an ongoing inductive study, we examine how the organizing principles of the oil and gas sector have changed in the years between 1938 and 2019. The goal of this study is to develop new theoretical understanding of institutional transformation processes, and by doing so, to offer insights that could inform future energy policy. Another ongoing quantitative study lays particular emphasis on the legacies of past energy systems, which include abandoned, orphaned, inactive, and suspended oil and gas wells. This study seeks to understand if, how, and why there might be variations among organizations in the management of the liabilities posed by these legacy systems. Based on the findings, this study aims to further substantiate policy recommendations for the transition to future energy systems.