Wes Paterson’s project to reclaim abandoned oil wells is gaining global recognition for Alberta’s energy future.
Wes Paterson, founder and owner of Paterson Consulting Inc., is no stranger to challenges in the energy sector. But the Medicine Hat-based consultant’s efforts to address one of Alberta’s most pressing environmental concerns have earned him recognition on the international stage. Paterson’s project, “Transforming Brownfields into Brightfields with Sustainable Opportunities,” was recently named a finalist for the prestigious Constantinus International Award, following its win of the CMC Canada Project of the Year Silver Award.
The initiative, developed in collaboration with RenuWell Energy Solutions, aims to tackle the growing problem of orphan wells, abandoned oil and gas sites scattered across Alberta. These sites pose a significant environmental and economic burden on local communities, with the cost of remediation and reclamation climbing to billions. As of 2024, nearly 80,000 inactive wells existed in the province, and the cost of cleaning them up was estimated to be around $1.12 billion. The orphan wells create a daunting challenge for landowners, municipalities, and the provincial government, as they await cleanup and remediation funding.
But Paterson, a consultant with a long history of problem-solving in the energy sector, saw an opportunity for a new approach. His innovative solution aims to repurpose these orphan well sites as energy-generating hubs using micro-grid solar technology. This would allow landowners to generate revenue while simultaneously advancing Alberta’s energy diversification efforts.
A Vision for Change: From Brownfields to Brightfields
The vision behind Paterson’s project is simple yet transformative. “We thought, maybe we can take these abandoned sites, sites that already have roads leading to them, and transform them into energy-producing areas,” Paterson explained. By using the existing infrastructure, his project seeks to quickly transition these brownfield sites into productive land for solar energy generation.
While not directly involved in the physical reclamation process, Paterson’s initiative is designed to create the revenue streams necessary to help fund the cleanup of these sites. The micro-grid solar systems proposed in the project could also help address Alberta’s energy needs, reducing reliance on traditional energy sources and diversifying the province’s power generation.
“There’s a business case here,” Paterson said. “We’re showing energy regulators, landowners, and government officials that this idea can work.” With pilot projects already underway in the Taber area, initial results are promising. The pilot systems are already producing energy, and early tests show the potential for scaling this model across the province.
Breaking New Ground: Overcoming Obstacles to Sustainable Solutions
The road to this point has not been without its hurdles. Paterson, like many consultants, faced skepticism and resistance from traditional energy stakeholders who are accustomed to conventional methods of site remediation. However, his ability to communicate the long-term benefits of his project, including job creation, revenue generation, and environmental recovery, has begun to win over critics.
For Paterson, the key to success has been collaboration. Working closely with RenuWell Energy Solutions and gaining support from local municipalities, he was able to showcase the viability of his approach. He credits the project’s success to the willingness of local partners to think outside the box and embrace new technologies and methods.
Moreover, Paterson is eager to push the boundaries of innovation even further. The international recognition his project has received is a testament to the growing interest in repurposing abandoned oil and gas sites for clean energy production. The upcoming Constantinus Awards ceremony in Hong Kong, where Paterson’s project will be showcased, is an opportunity not only to gain global recognition but also to foster new partnerships that could expand Alberta’s manufacturing sector and energy innovation.
The Path Forward: A Sustainable Future for Alberta’s Energy Landscape
Paterson’s efforts could have far-reaching implications for Alberta’s energy future. According to initial estimates, the project could generate up to $11 billion if it were implemented on the brownfield sites already identified. This would account for just 5% of the province’s inactive oil and gas sites, potentially transforming thousands of acres of abandoned land into sustainable, revenue-generating properties.
For Paterson, the future of Alberta’s energy landscape is one of collaboration, innovation, and diversification. His project not only addresses the immediate need for environmental remediation but also creates a platform for Alberta to explore new energy solutions. “It’s a way to reduce costs for reclamation, create jobs, and help the province move toward a more sustainable energy future,” Paterson says.
Looking forward, Paterson hopes the international exposure will open doors to even more ideas and partnerships. The global stage offers a rare opportunity to engage with like-minded individuals and organizations, and Paterson believes this collaboration could help Alberta become a leader in clean energy innovation.
A Call to Action: Moving Toward a Sustainable Energy Future
Paterson’s journey is a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration. His project offers a tangible solution to an age-old problem and could pave the way for Alberta to lead the charge in energy diversification and environmental restoration. By repurposing orphan wells into productive energy sites, Paterson is not just cleaning up the past; he’s shaping a brighter, more sustainable future.
For more information about Paterson Consulting’s work and how they are contributing to sustainable energy solutions in Alberta, connect with Wes Paterson via LinkedIn, visit Medicine Hat College’s official website, follow them on Facebook, or view their YouTube channel. Additionally, to learn more about collaboration opportunities visit Paterson Consulting.
