The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is conducting another round of helicopter flyovers to survey oil and gas facilities in the Permian Basin region. These flyovers aim to identify emissions from facilities, including methane, a potent greenhouse gas, and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). VOCs contribute to the formation of ozone (smog), which can lead to health issues such as asthma, lung infections, bronchitis, and cancer.
The EPA will employ several tools to address noncompliance identified through these flyovers, including administrative enforcement actions and referrals to the Department of Justice. The agency's actions will encompass significant penalties, corrective measures to prevent future non-compliance, and monitoring to ensure that corrective actions have effectively addressed the emissions.
“EPA is taking to the skies to protect the people who live and work in the Permian Basin from pollution that contributes to climate change and smog,” said Region 6 Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance. “By focusing on the largest leaks in the basin, our efforts can make a big difference in improving air quality and public health as we ensure that oil and gas facilities return to compliance as quickly as possible.”
Given the vast size of the area, EPA uses helicopter flyovers equipped with infrared cameras to detect emissions from oil and gas operations. These flyovers and subsequent inspections have led to significant enforcement results, with more cases currently under development. Over the past five years, EPA has issued 48 enforcement orders based on Permian Basin flyovers, resulting in penalties totaling $4.9 million. In addition to requiring companies to correct violations, many settlements mandate that companies install enhanced monitoring systems, evaluate permits and operations for compliance, and submit reports identifying repairs and equipment upgrades. These measures have helped avoid over 94 million pounds of potential emissions, including over 20 million pounds of VOCs and nearly 74 million pounds of methane.
For more information on these settlements and other related activities, please visit our enforcement webpage.
