The Department of the Interior has updated its guidelines for states applying to federal programmes specialising in the cleanup of orphaned oil and gas wells.
The revised guidelines mean two federal grant programmes have been updated: the US£780mn Orphaned Wells State Matching Grant Program and the US$1.93 billion Orphaned Wells State Formula Grant Program.
The revisions eliminate non-statutory requirements and reduces the burdens placed on state grant recipients, including removing the requirement that states conduct pre- and post-plugging methane measurements; recognizing the discretion states have in identifying and plugging orphaned wells; and eliminating the Department’s post-award environmental review and approval process.
Acting Assistant Secretary of Policy, Management and Budget, Tyler Hassen, said, “States know their land and their needs best. By cutting unnecessary barriers, we’re helping them clean up old wells faster, protect communities and support energy development.”
Eva Vrana, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and Environmental Management, commented, “These changes make it easier for states to get to work. States can move more quickly to plug wells and reduce environmental risks.”
The updated guidance supports the Trump’s administration initiatives to prioritise the USA’s energy independence and cut regulations. By giving the states more flexibility and speeding up plugging efforts, DOI is helping to achieve this goal.
