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DATE ISSUED: June 6, 2025
EFFECTIVE DATE: Please see below for the respective effective dates of the two updated documents


The BC Energy Regulator (BCER) is committed to reconciliation and the implementation of the Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act through meaningful collaboration with First Nations. Reflecting our ongoing efforts to strengthen engagement and regulatory practices, the BCER has updated two key documents related to energy resource activities: Guidance for Pre-engaging with First Nations and Treaty 8 Planning and Mitigation Measures.

Developed in collaboration with First Nations and industry proponents, these updates provide clearer, more practical direction to support early and effective engagement, define when pre-engagement is required and what is considered sufficient, and streamline processes to reduce redundancy. They also introduce new guidance on the respectful use of Indigenous Knowledge, strengthen alignment with First Nations' interests, and clarify planning expectations within Treaty 8 Territory. Together, these updates support more consistent, transparent, and collaborative project development across British Columbia (B.C).

Proponents and First Nations are encouraged to read the updated documents. As before, proponents must demonstrate how the guidance and measures have been considered and incorporated, where appropriate, prior to submitting an energy resource activity application to the BCER.


Key updates and revisions are outlined below.

1. Guidance for Pre-engaging with First Nations – Effective immediately

Originally released in March 2023, this guidance has been refined based in insights gathered from both First Nations and proponents. The updates provide clarity and practical direction to support effective early engagement with First Nations.

They apply to new applications and project planning activities across B.C. where pre-engagement is required.

Updates include:

  • Refined scope and objectives for when pre-engagement is required: More specific guidance on when pre-engagement is required, the expected level, and when it is not required for certain application types.
  • Defined sufficiency criteria: Improved clarity on when pre-engagement is considered sufficient, with specific principles outlined.
  • Stronger alignment with First Nations’ interests: Focus on building relationships, setting shared expectations and tailoring engagement processes to support meaningful and collaborative interactions with First Nations.
  • Streamlined process and documentation: Improved direction on bundling records, sharing information, and reducing redundancy to support more efficient workflows.

2. Treaty 8 Planning and Mitigation Measures – Effective Aug. 1, 2025

First released in April 2024, these measures have been revised to improve clarity and support consistent application.

The updates apply to all new applications and ongoing project planning within Treaty 8 Territory where the BCER regulates activities.

Updates include:

  • New guidance on Indigenous Knowledge: Definitions and direction regarding the respectful use of Indigenous Knowledge, including its relationship to professional practice under the Professional Governance Act.
  • Improved clarity in language: Clear and concise wording to support consistent interpretation and application.
  • Expanded project planning considerations: Additional information added to the project planning considerations sections. While not mandatory, proponents are encouraged to integrate these considerations during pre-engagement with First Nations.
  • Updated water guidance: A fully revised section conveying expectations related to water use and planning.


If you have any questions regarding this Technical Update, please contact:

Justin Anderson
Executive Director, Indigenous Relations
BC Energy Regulator
Justin.Anderson@bc-er.ca
250-794-5243