In Alberta, Canada, there are thousands of orphan oil wells being left to fall into disrepair, which could be repurposed for alternative energy uses to open up substantial economic opportunities for the province, according to new research. Abandoned oil wells have plagued the industry for years, with environmentalists calling for expensive and labour-intensive decommissioning projects to ensure that these old wells do not pose a risk to the environment or local community. However, new research from Energy Futures Lab and the Canada West Foundation suggests these wells could be repurposed to develop the renewable energy sector. A report published this week highlights the potential for these wells in unlocking new economic opportunities in Alberta. The main barrier to this type of development, according to Energy Futures Lab, are the hurdles put in place by lawmakers and regulators to converting the old wells. Julie Rohl of the Energy Futures Lab […]