There is a regulatory framework in place to reduce the risk of orphans, but when they do occur, our role is to safely and efficiently close them with industry funds.
Who we Are
The OWA closes oil and gas sites in Alberta that do not have a financially viable or responsible owner.
Annual Reports
We provide an overview of our performance each year.
Reducing the Risk of Orphans
Alberta has proactive regulations, with the OWA closing orphan sites when they do occur.
Fiscal Responsibility
We are funded by Alberta’s oil and gas industry and bundle projects to maximize efficiencies.
Leadership
We are led by an independent Board of Directors and experienced management team.
Inventory Across Alberta
An overview of Alberta’s orphan sites.
Site-specific Inventory
We maintain a list of every orphan site in Alberta.
Returning an orphan site similar to its original state takes several steps over years.
Sites at Risk
Before a site is designated an orphan, even before an insolvency process begins, the AER and OWA can become involved.
Designating an Orphan
The OWA closes sites designated as orphans by the AER.
Who Closes a Defunct Site?
Active companies may have a minority interest in a license held by a defunct company.
Decommissioning
Orphan sites are dismantled to ensure public safety and environmental protection.
Reclamation
Reclamation returns the land similar to its original state.
What to Expect
We engage landowners on our plans throughout the closure process.
Land Access
To close sites, we must access landowners’ properties.
Compensation
The OWA is unable to provide surface rental payments.
Projects in Communities
We keep communities with complex orphan sites up to date on projects.
Marketplace
There are opportunities to take over orphan licenses or buy salvaged equipment.
Take an Orphan License
Companies can request to have orphan assets transferred by the AER to another operator.
Tubing and Rods Sales
Tubing and rods are occasionally marketed directly by the OWA.
Working Interest Claims
Companies sharing a license with a defunct company can claim a portion of closure costs.
Working Interest Claims Process
How to submit a Working Interest Claim.
Working Interest Partner Agreements
Working interest partners can request the OWA close defunct company assets
Tackling a relic from a bygone era
In Castle Wildland Provincial Park, a team effort takes a new approach to solving an old problem
Ensuring the greater sage-grouse survives
Decommissioning in environmentally sensitive areas
Saving salamanders
Protecting species of special concern
Sometimes you need a plan “Bee”
A colony of 30,000 honeybees transitioned to new home
Current Project Information
The OWA plans projects annually on an area-basis to minimize impacts and maximize efficiencies.
Contractors
The OWA assigns projects to Prime Contractors, who then may hire subcontractors.
Careers
Interested in joining the OWA staff? See current opportunities.
Contractor Resource Centre
See our Contractor Resources
The OWA's annual reports share operational, financial and strategic highlights. Our fiscal year is from April to March 31.
2023
Annual Report
2022
2021
2020
2019
2018
