Calgary (Rajeev Sharma): Alberta is set to deepen its engagement with the United States on energy collaboration as provincial representative Chantelle de Jonge travels to Reno, Nevada, to participate in the Western Energy Caucus from July 13 to 15.
The three-day gathering will bring together lawmakers from across the western United States to discuss regional energy priorities, including electricity reliability, cleaner energy technologies and long-term infrastructure planning.
Representing Alberta, de Jonge, who serves as the parliamentary secretary for Affordability and Utilities and is the MLA for Chestermere-Strathmore, will use the forum to highlight the province’s role as a reliable energy supplier and a growing centre for energy innovation.
The Alberta government says the visit will focus on demonstrating how the province’s oil, natural gas and emerging energy technologies can help meet increasing electricity demand in western U.S. states while contributing to a more stable and secure energy system.
Officials also view the mission as an opportunity to strengthen relationships with American policymakers and industry stakeholders as both jurisdictions work toward improving energy resilience and expanding cross-border cooperation.
The Western Energy Caucus, established in 2025 by the Institute for Western Energy, is an invitation-only platform that encourages collaboration among legislators from 11 western U.S. states. Discussions this year are expected to cover issues such as power grid stability, carbon management, wildfire resilience, energy storage and low-emission electricity generation.
Alberta officials believe closer engagement with U.S. partners will support economic growth while reinforcing the province’s position as a key contributor to North America’s energy landscape.
The provincial government has also stated that expenses related to the official visit will be publicly disclosed through Alberta’s travel and expense reporting system following the completion of the mission.
