Established in October 1998, the BC Oil and Gas Commission (Commission) is the provincial single-window regulatory agency responsible for regulating oil and gas operations in B.C.
We oversee activities from exploration and development, to pipeline transportation and reclamation.
Our expertise is continually growing in response to a changing industry; our regulatory role has recently expanded to include refineries, value added gas and liquids manufacturing processes and aspects of geothermal power.
Regulatory responsibility is delegated by the Province of British Columbia to the Commission through the Oil and Gas Activities Act and includes specified enactments under the Forest Act, Heritage Conservation Act, Land Act, Environmental Management Act, and Water Sustainability Act. This regulatory model is designed to provide a streamlined one-stop regulatory agency.
What we do
We protect public safety and safeguard the environment through the sound regulation of oil, gas and geothermal activities in B.C., while balancing a broad range of environmental, economic and social considerations.
From exploration through to final reclamation, we work closely with communities and land owners, and confirm industry compliance with provincial legislation. We also strive to ensure close working relationships with Indigenous peoples.
With more than 20 years’ dedicated service, the Commission is committed to ensuring safe and responsible energy resource management for British Columbia.
Funding and Accountability
The Commission is self-funded through the application of industry fees and levies. Like other Crown Corporations in B.C., we are not governed directly by a Minister, but rather by a Board of Directors, which sets our strategic direction. We are however, accountable to the provincial legislature and the public through the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources.
Each year our Board Chair and the Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources sign a Mandate Letter setting out the Commission’s roles, responsibilities and expectations. This can be found in our Board documents.
The Strategic Plan describes our long-term vision and five corporate goals. The Commission articulates its corporate strategy through the long-term goals, objectives, and activities documented within its Strategic Plan.
Vision
Safe and responsible energy resource development for British Columbia.
Mission
We provide British Columbia with regulatory excellence in responsible energy resource development by:
- Protecting public safety,
- Safeguarding the environment, and
- Respecting those who are affected.
Values
- Transparency is our commitment to be open and provide clear information on decisions, operations and actions.
- Innovation is our commitment to learn, adapt, act and grow.
- Integrity is our commitment to the principles of fairness, trust and accountability.
- Respect is our commitment to listen, accept and value diverse perspectives.
- Responsiveness is our commitment to listening and timely and meaningful action.
Organization and Structure
Board Members
Assisted by a group of expert consultants, the Board factors corporate risks into the strategic planning process.
Executive Leadership
The Commission's executive leadership team is accountable for day-to-day operations.