Course

Navigating Canada’s Output-Based Pricing System and Unlocking Value Through Strategic Trade-offs

Level: Intermediate
Facilitators: 
Sara Turner, SLR Consulting
Gonzalo Rios, SLR Consulting

Abstract:
This comprehensive half-day short course, presented by experts in mining compliance and Canada’s Output Based Pricing System (OBPS), is designed to equip participants with the skills needed to optimize OBPS compliance. As the mining industry faces increasing regulatory pressures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, understanding the financial implications and strategic trade-offs associated with compliance is crucial for projects in the feasibility and design stages.
This course addresses timely and critical issues in the mining industry to manage transitional risk. By understanding the OBPS framework and its financial implications, participants will be better equipped to make informed decisions that promote innovation and sustainability in their projects.  The course is designed for mining professionals involved in project development including risk management, optimization, compliance, estimating, financial modelling and decarbonization. The course will provide all necessary materials and documentation to ensure a comprehensive learning experience. 

Short Course Objectives:

• Understanding compliance carbon markets: Insights into the evolution of compliance carbon markets, from the Kyoto Protocol to the OBPS, and key milestones in Canada. 

• Navigating the OBPS framework: The course will cover provincial differences and components of the OBPS, including compliance units, offset units, and activities to help participants understand the terminology and requirements relevant to their projects. 

• Practical emission estimation techniques: Attendees will learn to gather essential data, apply emission factors, and utilize tools such as Excel for emission estimates and compliance payment projections.

• Financial modelling for decision-making: Participants will explore financial models that assess the capital and operational impacts of compliance strategies, including the valuation of compliance units and the trade-offs associated with decarbonization efforts. 

• Case studies: Multiple case studies will be covered, including different types of mines, technologies for processing and water treatment, and a full suite of decarbonization options including synthetic biodiesel, self-generation of renewables, fleet and equipment electrification and carbon offsets.

Target Audience: 
Mining professionals involved in aspects of project development including risk management, optimization, compliance, estimating, financial modelling and decarbonization.

About the instructor: 
Sara Turner MEP. (Sr. Environmental Specialist, SLR Consulting) 15 years working in international carbon markets, energy and mining. 

Gonzalo Rios (SLR Consulting) Gonzalo is an Executive Consultant specializing in ESG, with over 30 years of experience in environmental auditing, management, monitoring, and permitting for mining projects. He has played key roles in major mining operations across Latin America, Canada, Finland, and USA, working with companies such as AMEC E&E, Pan American Silver Corp., Aura Minerals, Agnico Eagle Mines, Josemaria Resources, Ausenco, and now SLR Consulting. His expertise includes environmental audits, due diligence, and compliance for projects involving copper, gold, silver, iron, coal, nickel, tin, and rare earths. Gonzalo holds a B.Sc. in Chemistry from the University of Toronto, postgraduate diplomas in Environmental Management and Environmental Engineering from Chilean universities, and an MBA from the University of Chile.