Imperial Oil Joins Ranks Against Alberta Separatism
Imperial Oil has become the first major Alberta energy company to publicly oppose separatism in the province. In a recent statement, Imperial's CEO John Whelan expressed his support for a united Canada, citing that it is the strongest position to face challenges and opportunities ahead.
The province will hold a vote on October 19 to authorize a binding independence referendum, but most Albertans currently oppose separation. A government-commissioned study estimates that separation could cost Alberta's GDP between 2.2% and 10.1% in the short term and between 3.4% and 16.2% over the long term.
Imperial Oil operates several sites in Alberta, including the Kearl oil sands mine and refineries, and has expressed support for Premier Danielle Smith's production goals. Whelan stated that Imperial has the potential to double its gross operated upstream production under a supportive fiscal and regulatory framework.