The Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Petroleum Board (C-NLOPB) manages the petroleum resources in the Newfoundland Offshore Area on behalf of the Government of Canada and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. The Board’s responsibilities include:
- granting and administering offshore areas interests (“land sales”);
- authorizing seismic and drilling programs; and
- declaring significant and commercial discoveries.
Jurisdiction
The Board’s offshore jurisdiction is defined by the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Atlantic Accord Implementation Newfoundland and Labrador Act section 2(0). Through an annual Call for Nominations process the Board identifies potential areas for land sales to be included in a follow up Call for Bids. Subject to approval by the responsible federal and provincial Ministers review, the Board uses a formal Call for Bids to invite exploration bids on approved offshore land parcels.
Calls for Bids
The latest Call for Nominations and Call for Bids information can be found under “Land Information” at C-NLOPB’s website. Supplementary information is available through the Energy Branch. Up-to-date offshore oil and gas resource licence information (i.e.; exploration, significant discovery, production) can also be found at C-NLOPB’s website.
Regulatory Considerations
The Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Petroleum Board (C-NLOPB) regulates the oil and gas industry offshore Newfoundland and Labrador on behalf of the governments of Canada and the Province of Newfoundland and Labrador. It administers the provisions of the provincial legislation known as the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Atlantic Accord Implementation Newfoundland Act and supporting regulations and the federal legislation known as the Canada-Newfoundland Atlantic Accord Implementation Act.
The Board operates autonomously in carrying out its role in resource management, safety, environmental protection and industrial benefits except where the Accord Acts prescribe that specific decisions are subject to the approval of the federal and provincial energy minister. Negotiation of establishment of royalty regimes, promotion of oil and gas resources, making or changing relevant legislation and decisions subject to ministerial approvals remain the prerogative of governments.