Ottawa Holds Power to Slap $55-a-Barrel Charge on Alberta Oil Exports

Ottawa has the power to impose a significant charge on Alberta's oil exports without passing new legislation, according to a fact-check by Rebel News.

The federal Energy Administration Act allows the Governor in Council to impose a charge of up to $350 per cubic metre of oil exported from Canada, which works out to approximately $55.65 per barrel.

This power can be exercised through an Order in Council on the recommendation of the responsible minister and the finance minister, without requiring Parliament's approval.

The Act also allows for variable tariffs based on the type, source, and destination of the oil, giving Ottawa significant leverage over Alberta's exports.

Experts warn that using this power could accelerate Alberta's independence movement, as Canadians may view it as a punitive measure against the province.