EPA proposes methane rule rollback

The EPA on Tuesday proposed major changes to methane emission standards for the oil and gas industry. The move would significantly reduce regulations established during the Biden administration. President Trump announced the plan while campaigning in Lubbock, Texas. He argued that the revision under the Clean Air Act would save the sector billions in production costs. He also claimed the changes would spur more domestic drilling.

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas. It is estimated to be 80 times more effective at warming the planet than carbon dioxide over a 20-year period. The 2023 rules sought to limit leaks from drilling sites and pipelines. The new proposal targets these existing mandates for revision.

Lee Zeldin, the EPA administrator, defended the action in a press release. He stated that the previous rules destructively targeted millions of workers and businesses. He emphasized that the new approach supports the heartbeat of the national economy. The American Petroleum Institute welcomed the proposal. Dustin Meyer, the organization's vice president, said the industry looks forward to a more workable approach. He noted the new rules would provide greater regulatory certainty while still advancing emissions reductions.

Environmental advocates argue the rollback will increase costs for producers. Jon Goldstein, an associate vice president at the Environmental Defense Fund, explained that methane is natural gas. Capturing the gas prevents leaks and reduces flaring. This process yields more product for sale, which offsets compliance costs. Goldstein warned that allowing gas to waste harms energy security and taxpayer revenue.

The proposal would eliminate the Methane Super Emitter Program. This rule is set to take effect in January 2027. It allows the government to rely on certified third parties, including satellite programs, to detect large leaks. Methane is invisible and difficult to find. Paasha Mahdavi, a political science professor at UC Santa Barbara, explained that third-party reports help the government identify violations. Without the program, the agency will struggle to spot large leaks from facilities. He noted that the government needs external help to prove companies are breaking the law.

The EPA also plans to loosen rules for low-volume marginal wells. These are wells near the end of their production life that generate little profit. Goldstein said these old wells are responsible for a large share of methane pollution from the production sector. He challenged the assumption that small wells produce small emissions, citing data from satellites and new technology.

The agency will publish the proposed rule changes in the Federal Register. It plans to hold a public hearing. The public comment period will last at least 45 days.