Alberta’s government is removing regulatory hurdles to help service rig convoys move more efficiently across the province, eliminating repeated stops at inspection stations and freeing up time for energy contractors to work in the field.Under a new Memorandum of Agreement between Alberta Transportation and Economic Corridors and the Canadian Association of Energy Contractors (CAOEC), qualified service rigs will now be allowed to bypass Vehicle Inspection Stations. The move integrates CAOEC members into the Drivewyze preclear program, which lets commercial vehicles with strong safety records avoid routine inspection stops..Previously, each vehicle in a service rig convoy — including the carrier, pump truck, equipment truck, and crew vehicles — was required to stop at every station they passed, despite high compliance rates. Alberta officials say the change will cut down on fuel use, improve productivity, and support jobs in the energy sector without compromising safety.“This change is about common sense,” said Devin Dreeshen, Minister of Transportation and Economic Corridors. “It keeps our rigs moving and lets the energy service sector focus on what they do best — driving growth, creating jobs, and supporting responsible energy development across Alberta.”Energy and Minerals Minister Brian Jean said the shift will help get Alberta’s resources out of the ground faster, increasing royalties, taxes, and employment. CAOEC President Mark Scholz praised the province’s action, calling it a sign of strong leadership that will create efficiencies while supporting energy workers.The agreement may serve as a model for similar arrangements in Saskatchewan and Manitoba.
