May 23, 2012

EPA Proposes Air Pollution (VOC) Standards for Oil & Gas Operations that EPA Claims Will Save Millions

Greenberg Traurig
K. B. Battaglini
Greenberg Traurig, LLP
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Administrative & Regulatory / Environmental, Energy & Resources
All Federal
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The EPA has announced new standards to reduce volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from oil and gas operations.  According to an EPA fact sheet, the proposed standards rely upon existing technologies, and are projected to result in a net annual savings to the industry of $30 million.  The existing technologies have two components: implementation of the EPA's Natural Gas STAR program, which contemplates the use of "green completions" of oil and gas wells, and the continued use of "pit flaring" of non-captured emissions.  A green completion is another name for reduced emissions completions, whereby more of the emissions are captured by surface equipment.  Pit flaring involves the ignition of gas-bearing emissions at the surface, typically in a surface pit.  However, while pit flaring would eliminate certain emissions, it introduces hazards and other emissions issues.  Following a public comment period, the EPA will take final action on the proposed standards by Feb. 28, 2012.

©2012 Greenberg Traurig, LLP. All rights reserved.

About the Author

K. B. Battaglini

K. B. Battaglini is licensed to practice law in the state and federal courts of Texas and New York, and has experience in Energy, Environmental and Natural Resources.

battaglinik@gtlaw.com
713-374-3552
www.gtlaw.com

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