Adapting to New U.S. EPA Methane Regulations
On December 2, at COP 28, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a final rule that is expected to reduce emissions of methane from oil and natural gas operations by nearly 80% by 2030. The final rule includes strengthened standards for methane from new, modified, and reconstructed sources, as well as emissions guidelines setting a minimum standard for states which must now develop plans to limit methane emissions from existing sources.
Overview of Rule
The final rule introduces key changes covering almost all methane emission sources from oil and gas. This includes phasing out of routine natural gas flaring at new oil wells, mandating regular leak monitoring at all well sites and compressor stations, and providing compliance options using continuous methane detection technologies. Additionally, the rule introduces a new policy address “super emitting” sources, enabling certified third parties to report large leaks. Finally, the rule substantially reduces emissions from pneumatic devices (now called process controllers in new rule), pumps, and storage tanks.
A summary of the changes related to pneumatic devices / process controllers is provided below. More details on the other key changes can be found at the EPA website.
Summary of Implications for Pneumatic Devices
New Source Performance Standards (NSPS / 0000b)
The new rule specifies that any sites constructed after December 6, 2022 are considered new sources and all pneumatic devices / process controllers must meet a methane and VOC emission rate of zero. The rule provides a one-year phase-in period for producers to meet these zero-emissions standards. The rule provides an exemption from the zero-emissions requirement for process controllers in Alaska at locations where access to electrical power from the power grid is not available.
Emissions Guidelines for Existing Sources (EG / 0000c)
Sites constructed prior December 6, 2022 are considered existing sources and will be regulated under state plans. The state plans must meet the standard set by the new EPA guidelines, including performance standards that require all pneumatic devices /process controllers to meet a methane and VOC emission rate of zero. The rule requires that states submit their plans by December 2025 and generally requires compliance is achieved by no later than December 2028. This means that producers will have up to 5 years before they must eliminate methane emissions from all pneumatics on existing sites.
How Convrg Can Help
In response to the recent EPA methane regulations, Convrg is here to provide support for the industry. We specialize in assisting oil and gas producers in reducing emissions from pneumatic devices. Our proprietary EPOD systems have been successfully deployed across North America, covering various site types, including on-grid, off-grid, new, and retrofit.
Our latest product, proAir, is designed with the new EPA regulations in mind, particularly tailored for legacy well sites, all while being budget-friendly. If you’re seeking a compliant solution, please visit our website to learn more about our solutions or get in touch with us. Our experienced applications engineers are available to conduct a complimentary assessment based on your pneumatic device inventory or site drawings. We are committed to helping you navigate these changes and contribute to a more sustainable future for the industry.
