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Special Reports

CAOEC forecast: Drilling activity to increase

December 18, 2025

The Canadian Association of Energy Contractors (CAOEC) forecasts an average of 213 active rigs in 2026, matching the average seen in 2024.

The latest DOB Energy guidance report covers announcements made December 1-12, 2025, including for Advantage, Athabasca, Cavvy, Cenovus, Chevron, Duvernay, Gran Tierra, Headwater, Lotus Creek, Suncor and Tamarack Valley.

The association forecasts 5,709 rig releases in 2026, up from an expected 5,548 in 2025. There were 5,758 rig releases in 2024,

The report provides 2026 forecasts for capital spending, drilling and production for companies headquartered in Canada and the U.S. The latest report focuses on updates announced Dec. 1-12, including for Advantage Energy Inc.,

Athabasca Oil Corporation, Cavvy Energy Ltd., Duvernay Energy Corporation, Gran Tierra Energy Inc., Headwater Exploration Inc., Lotus Creek Exploration Inc., Suncor Energy Inc., Tamarack Valley Energy Ltd. and Chevron Corporation.

Free access to full report