Reconsideration of Standards of Performance for New, Reconstructed, and Modified Sources and Emissions Guidelines for Existing Sources: Oil and Natural Gas Sector Climate Review
Published Date: 1/15/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The EPA is updating some technical rules for oil and natural gas companies, focusing on how they handle gas flaring and monitoring emissions. These changes don’t affect overall pollution limits but tweak how companies report and manage certain gases. Companies should share their thoughts by March 3, 2025, and get ready for clearer, fairer rules that keep the air cleaner without extra costs.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Temporary Flaring Time Extended
If you operate oil or natural gas production sites that sometimes route associated gas to a flare, the EPA proposes to extend the allowed temporary flaring time from 24 hours to 48 hours for events caused by malfunctions (including safety reasons) and for repair or maintenance. The EPA is also asking for comment on allowing up to 72 hours in "exigent circumstances" (for example, weather or road closures) and on requiring records that include a written description of the exigent circumstance, the rationale for extending flaring, measures taken to minimize flaring, the duration, and an annual summary of such events.
Which Facilities the Rule Covers
The proposal confirms that the New Source Performance Standards (NSPS OOOOb) apply to affected facilities that begin construction, reconstruction, or modification after December 6, 2022. The Emission Guidelines (EG OOOOc) apply to State plans for existing designated facilities that were in place on or before December 6, 2022; Tribes may seek approval to implement a Tribal implementation plan or the EPA may issue a Federal plan for facilities in Indian country. The March 8, 2024 final rule became effective May 7, 2024.
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