Governance

The Canada Energy Regulator works within the Canadian Energy Regulator Act (CER Act). The CER Act provides a clear separation between the operational and adjudicative functions of the Regulator.

Board of Directors

The Board of Directors oversees the CER at the level of governance and strategic advice and direction, and is focused on results and outcomes. It does not normally engage in routine operations, which is the role of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The Board does work closely with the CEO, who provides the Board with the support needed to do their work.

The Board holds quarterly Regular meetings and posts a synopsis of each meeting.

The CER’s Board is comprised of between 5 and 9 Directors, including the Chairperson and the Vice-Chairperson. At least one of the Directors is required to be an Indigenous person. All Directors serve part-time and are appointed by Governor in Council.

CEO

The CEO is responsible for the management and daily operations and affairs of the organization, including the supervision of its employees and their work, and has the responsibilities of a deputy head. The CEO works closely with the Board and provides both the Board and the Commission with the support needed to carry out their respective responsibilities.

The CEO is appointed by the Governor in Council on the recommendation of the Minister following consultation with the Board of Directors.

Commission

The Commission is responsible for adjudicative decisions, operating as a quasi-judicial body that is arm’s length from other parts of the CER governance structure and Natural Resources Canada. The Commission is part of the CER and, although its adjudicative role is independent, it contributes to the overall effective delivery of the CER’s mandate and corporate outcomes.

The Commission is comprised of up to 7 full-time Commissioners, including the Lead Commissioner and Deputy Lead Commission, who are appointed by Governor in Council. At least one full-time Commissioner must be an Indigenous person. The Commission may also include part-time Commissioners.