Today USEPA issued its final rules that provide New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) for volatile organic compounds (VOC) and sulfur dioxide, and National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP) for oil and gas production and natural gas transmission and storage. Integral to the rules is the requirement that producers capture VOC emissions and methane during well completions (Green Completions) for hydraulically fractured wells. However, in response to significant industry comments, USEPA has decided to allow flaring and phasing in the Green Completion requirements in 2015. This will allow ample time for all producers to obtain the necessary equipment to meet the Green Completion requirements. The final rules are the result of over 150,000 public comments including those from government agencies, industry and environmental groups.
