Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has announced plans for a non-binding referendum in the fall to gauge public support for the province's independence from Canada.
The move follows months of campaigning by separatist groups and has sparked immediate reactions in energy markets.
Energy prices have shown early signs of volatility as traders assess the implications of a potential split.
Alberta, a key hub for Canada's oil sands, accounts for a significant portion of the country's energy production.
A shift in governance could introduce regulatory uncertainty and complicate cross-border infrastructure projects.
The referendum is the latest development in a broader political shift in the province.