Title:
Alberta's Strategic Research Directions In Energy Development
Abstract:
In recent years, Alberta Energy has taken a renewed strategic approach to research and innovation. In 2008, the Department created a Research and Technology Branch which has as part of its mandate the identification of strategic research directions that have a bearing on the mandate of the Alberta Department of Energy. In addition, the Government of Alberta restructured its overall innovation structure in 2009. The mandate of the Alberta Department of Energy encompasses hydrocarbons (oil, gas and coal), renewables and alternative forms of energy, and electricity production. Strategic research directions cover off not only production, but also market access and future energy demand considerations and trends. Mr. Holly will discuss the central elements of emerging research directions and how they may relate to future resource development in Alberta and Canada.
Bio:
Presented by Mr. Chris Holly, Branch Head, Research & Technology Resource Development, Policy Division, Alberta Energy.
Christopher Holly is the Branch Head, Research & Technology, Resource Development Policy Division, of the Alberta Department of Energy. This Branch is responsible for administering several research programs, such as the Innovative Energy Technologies Program, and for the development of strategic directions for Department energy related research.
Christopher has a diverse background in public energy policy development dating back to the 1970’s. As a participant, secretary or chair, he has participated in various functions such as regional (municipal) government; public, industry and Cabinet Task Forces; Royal Commissions; and Expert Panels.
Energy policy areas that he has been involved in include nuclear energy, energy efficient housing, conservation and industrial energy energy efficiency, renewables, alternative transportation fuels, power generation (coal, cogeneration, wind, hydro, solar, biomass), electricity deregulation, heavy oil, oil, oil sands, natural gas, economic and value added development, and royalty and resource policy development.
He graduated with a BSc (Physics) from the University of Alberta in 1983, obtained a Diploma in Public Sector Management from the University of Victoria in 1985, and completed a Masters in Public Administration from the University of Victoria in 1987.
Prior to becoming the Branch Head of Research & Technology, Christopher was the Issues Manager for the Oil Division. Previously, he held the positions of Business Unit Leader Oil, and Director of Oil Sands Issues and Planning for the Alberta Department of Energy.
In 2010, Christopher was awarded the "Distinguished Service Award" by the Petroleum Technology Alliance of Canada for his exceptional leadership in advancing hydrocarbon development.
He is also an ongoing guest lecturer on royalties and resource development policy for various institutions and universities.