The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE) have announced a significant investment of approximately $850 million for 43 projects aimed at reducing methane emissions from the oil and gas sector. This initiative, part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, includes seven projects in Colorado and Wyoming, under EPA Region 8.
This funding aims to support small oil and gas operators, Tribes, and other entities nationwide in their efforts to reduce, monitor, measure, and quantify methane emissions. The agencies have taken over 100 actions since 2023 to address methane pollution, including an EPA rule expected to cut emissions by 80% from 2024 to 2038 compared to projected levels without the rule.
Award recipients in Colorado include Colorado State University with $324.6 million allocated across three projects. These initiatives focus on mitigating emissions from marginal conventional wells (MCWs), developing low-emission systems for natural gas engines, and improving methane emission measurements.
Pioneer Energy Inc., based in Lakewood, Colorado, has been awarded $17 million for three projects targeting zero-emission solutions for sour sites and well pad processing technology. Blue Mountain Operations in Rock Springs, Wyoming received $3.8 million for deploying solar-powered technology at remote sites.
EPA Regional Administrator KC Becker emphasized the importance of these grants: “These grants will ensure the reduction of harmful greenhouse gases and volatile organic compounds while allowing operators to upgrade equipment and employ an underserved workforce.”
U.S. Secretary of Energy Jennifer M. Granholm highlighted the broader impact: “This historic investment made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act is helping energy communities deliver long-lasting health and environmental benefits across the country.”
Senator Michael Bennet noted Colorado's leadership role: “This funding helps ensure Colorado will continue leading the way towards cutting dangerous air pollution.”
Cassandra Mosele from Colorado State University expressed pride in supporting innovative solutions that benefit small operators and community development.
Overall, this investment represents a substantial step toward addressing climate change through innovative technologies that reduce methane emissions while fostering economic growth within affected communities.
