measurement strategies :
This summer , EPA will solicit input on the use of advanced measurement data and methods in subpart W by issuing a Request for Information and opening a non-regulatory docket , including specific questions and topics on which EPA seeks input from the public . EPA intends to use the feedback received to consider whether it is appropriate to undertake further rulemaking addressing the use of advanced measurement technologies in subpart W , beyond the role for these technologies that is already provided in today ’ s rule .
EPA also seeks to continuously update its knowledge about new measurement and detection technologies , and to elicit input from stakeholders and experts about how such advances should inform EPA ’ s regulations . To keep pace with this dynamic field , EPA plans to undertake a solicitation or engagement for information about advanced measurement and detection technologies ( in the form of a Request for Information , workshop , or similar mechanism ) on at least a biennial basis . These engagements will enable EPA to learn about technological advances and the extent to which there is robust information about their accuracy , reliability , and appropriateness for use in a regulatory reporting program .
Background on the Methane Emissions Reduction Program in the Inflation Reduction Act
Methane is a climate “ super pollutant ” that is more potent than carbon dioxide and responsible for approximately one third of the warming from greenhouse gases occurring today . The oil and natural gas sector is the largest industrial source of methane emissions in the United States . Quick reduction of these methane emissions is one of the most important and cost-effective actions the United States can take in the short term to slow the rate of rapidly rising global temperatures .
EPA issued a final rule in December 2023 to sharply reduce methane emissions and other harmful air pollution from new and existing oil and gas operations . In addition , EPA is working to implement the three-part framework of the Inflation Reduction Act ’ s Methane Emissions Reduction Program .
First , EPA is partnering with the U . S . Department of Energy ( DOE ) to utilize resources provided by Congress in the Inflation Reduction Act to provide over $ 1 billion dollars in financial and technical assistance to accelerate the transition to technologies that reduce methane emissions and may include funds for activities associated with marginal ( i . e ., low-producing ) conventional wells , support for methane monitoring , and funding to help reduce methane emissions from oil and gas operations .
Second , with today ’ s announcement , as directed by Congress , EPA is updating subpart W of the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program to ensure that reporting of methane emissions from oil and natural gas operations is based on empirical data and accurately reflects emissions .
Third , in January 2024 EPA proposed a rule to implement Congress ’ requirement for a Waste Emissions Charge . To take advantage of near-term opportunities for methane reductions while EPA and states
work toward full implementation of the final oil and gas rule , Congress directed EPA to collect a charge on methane emissions from large oil and gas facilities that are high-emitting and wasteful , based on data submitted under subpart W .
Background about Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program Requirements for Petroleum and Natural Gas Sector
The GHGRP requires reporting of greenhouse gas data and other relevant information from large GHG emission sources , fuel and industrial gas suppliers , and CO2 injection sites in the United States . Approximately 8,000 facilities are required to report their emissions annually , and the reported data are made available to the public in October of each year .
Under the GHGRP , owners or operators of facilities that contain petroleum and natural gas systems and emit 25,000 metric tons or more of GHGs per year ( expressed as carbon dioxide equivalents ) report GHG data to EPA . Owners
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