Since the creation of the Petroleum and Natural Gas Conservation Board in 1938,[9] the regulatory body has consistently overseen energy development in the province.

The AER builds off of this legacy, but it is now, under the REDA, an entirely new organization with new regulatory functions and authority over energy-related applications and developments.

[10] The AER "ensures the safe, efficient, orderly, and environmentally responsible development of hydrocarbon resources over their entire life cycle.

This includes allocating and conserving water resources, managing public lands, and environmental protection while providing economic benefits for all Albertans.

[11] Critics raised concerns the AER would lead to less transparency in the regulation of the oil, gas and coal industry and would weaken environmental protection.

The Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers (CAPP) welcomes the change that will streamline access to water and environmental permits for oil companies, by creating a one-stop-shop with "much needed clarity".

"[5] Some in the oil industry insiders, such as Bill Andrew, CEO of Long Run Exploration, supports splitting up "AER's functions because the current regulator has too much on its plate".

[19] Global New's request for a freedom of information resulted in the release of AER CEO Laurie Pushor's 20 April 2020 "internal briefing note" consisting of 60 pages of emails.

[21] Provincial Minister of Energy and Minerals, Brian Jean, visited the Kearl site and applauded Imperial's "commitment to environmental protection" as "top notch", days before the AER announced another 670,000 litre leakage.