Alberta government report pegs cost of separation at up to $170 billion over 5 years

EDMONTON — A report commissioned by the Alberta government estimates that the cost of separating from Canada may reach up to $170 billion over the initial five-year period. The report, produced by the University of Calgary’s School of Public Policy, outlines a potential range from a minimum cost of $50 billion to the higher figure of $170 billion.

The expenditure would encompass the construction of new infrastructure, the hiring of personnel to oversee and manage the transition, and the funding of Alberta’s share of the federal debt. The study also examines two scenarios for separation. One scenario assumes a seamless departure with Canada, while the other depicts a potentially expensive and challenging transition should the federal government adopt a confrontational stance during negotiations.

Albertans are scheduled to cast their votes on October 19th to determine whether they want to stay within Canada or participate in a second, binding referendum on leaving the country. This report by The Canadian Press was initially published on September 16, 2026.