Alberta is challenging the constitutionality of the federal government’s Clean Electricity Regulations, warning the rules could lead to higher costs, power shortages, and potential blackouts during extreme weather.
The provincial government announced Thursday that it has referred the matter to the Alberta Court of Appeal, arguing that Ottawa’s net-zero electricity mandate intrudes on provincial jurisdiction. Under the Constitution, provinces control the development and operation of their electricity systems.
“These regulations aren’t just unconstitutional — they’re dangerous,” said Premier Danielle Smith. “They put Albertans at risk of blackouts in the heat of summer and the deep cold of winter.”
The federal regulations, finalized in December 2024, require electricity producers to meet net-zero emissions targets by 2035. Alberta officials say that timeline is unachievable without compromising grid reliability or making costly and speculative technology upgrades.
According to the Alberta Electric System Operator, the regulations would make Alberta’s power system more than 100 times less reliable than current standards. The province estimates electricity bills could rise by 35 per cent if the rules are implemented.
Justice Minister Mickey Amery called the regulations “federal overreach,” warning they will lead to unpredictable outages and rising costs, especially for vulnerable households. Environment Minister Rebecca Schulz added that the rules rely on “technology that doesn’t exist” and would punish Alberta for using natural gas — the province’s primary source of dispatchable power.
“We’re not going to let Ottawa shut off the lights,” Schulz said.
Alberta’s challenge is part of a broader pushback against federal climate policies. The province argues the path to emissions reductions must balance environmental goals with energy security and economic viability.
“Albertans depend on affordable, reliable power,” said Affordability Minister Nathan Neudorf. “We won’t stand by while Ottawa puts that at risk.”
The court’s decision could set a key precedent in the ongoing debate over federal and provincial authority on energy and climate policy.
