What Happened
On December 2, 2023, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized a rule that will update and strengthen standards for methane and other air pollutants from oil and natural gas operations. Publication in the Federal Register is anticipated in the near future.
Read more in the full Regulatory Alert.
Implications
Facilities must be in compliance with these standards as early as 60 days after the final rule is published in the Federal Register, with longer periods allowed depending on type of equipment and method of compliance.
UPDATE: The EPA Final Rule has been published in the Federal Register, starting the 60 day clock for compliance. The Final Rule effective date is May 7, 2024.
SWCA Lens
The final rule does recognize and encourage innovation and provides owners and operators the flexibility to use a range of advanced technologies to identify leaks and reduce methane emissions.
SWCA’s data acquisition and air quality services include precision airborne leak detection and fugitive emissions monitoring via drone-mounted sensors, applicability determinations of GHG and VOC standards, and comprehensive compliance program, including strategies, compliance options, and regulatory due dates. Current technology deployments enable us to detect greenhouse gases emitting at 5 parts per million/cubic meter and greater.
These remote sensing…
