EXHIBIT 23

                         CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS

We consent to the incorporation by reference in the Registration Statement (Form
S-8 No. 33-69982) pertaining to the AER Energy Resources, Inc. 1992 Stock Option
Plan and in the Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 33-69462) pertaining to the
AER Energy Resources, Inc. 1993 Non-Employee Director's Restricted Stock Award
Plan and in the Registration Statement (Form S-8 No. 33-89068) pertaining to the
AER Energy Resources, Inc. / H. Douglas Johns Stock Option Agreement of our
report dated February 11, 2002, with respect to the financial statements of AER
Energy Resources, Inc. included in the Annual Report (Form 10-K) for the year
ended December 31, 2001.

                                   /s/ Ernst & Young LLP

Atlanta, Georgia
March 27, 2002