Texas to consider suing EPA over new emissions rule
February 28, 2024
News West 9
ODESSA, Texas — The Environmental Protection Agency is cracking down on the oil and gas industry by issuing a new rule that will soon be posted in the Federal Register.
According to an e-mail sent to members of the Permian Basin Petroleum Association, the Texas Railroad Commission is asking the Texas Attorney General to consider suing the EPA over the new rule.
A climate review is expected to be published next Friday, March 8, 2024, that will outline how methane emissions can be reduced by oil and gas operators. Some of the key points mentioned by the EPA include a new rule that would reduce 58 million tons of methane emissions from 2024 to 2028.
Heightened methane detection technology would be implemented, along with changes to equipment in an effort that would recover enough natural gas to heat nearly 8 million homes.
If the filing goes through, the rule will go into effect and operators have 60 days to comply. They have until May 7, 2024, to be in compliance.