Statement from the Center for Methane Emissions Solutions on EPA's Planned Reconsideration of Oil and Gas Methane Regulations

The Center for Methane Emissions Solutions (CMES) is concerned by EPA's announcement that it intends to roll back key provisions of the 2024 oil and gas methane regulations, including the Super Emitter Program. Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas, and reducing emissions from oil and gas operations is one of the most practical and cost-effective ways to address climate change. Significant progress has been made in recent years as new technologies have improved our ability to detect, measure, and mitigate methane emissions.

EPA's proposed elimination of the Super Emitter Program is particularly concerning. The program was designed to leverage advances in satellite monitoring, aerial detection, and other technologies to identify major methane releases and provide operators with actionable information to address them. Eliminating this framework would be a missed opportunity to put American innovation to work reducing emissions and preventing the waste of valuable natural gas.

CMES recognizes the importance of regulations that are practical, achievable, and responsive to the operational realities of American energy producers. However, regulatory reform should build on advances in methane detection and mitigation, not undermine them.

We will carefully review EPA's forthcoming proposal, including its proposed changes affecting marginal wells and other oil and gas operations. We encourage the agency to work with industry, technology providers, and other stakeholders to preserve effective methane reduction measures that protect the environment while supporting affordable and reliable domestic energy production.

Reducing methane emissions and strengthening American energy production are not mutually exclusive goals. With the right policies and technologies, we can accomplish both.

About CMES
The Center for Methane Emissions Solutions represents the nation’s leading methane mitigation technology companies, working with industry to deliver practical solutions that reduce emissions and strengthen profitability.

Contact:
Isaac Brown
Executive Director
Center for Methane Emissions Solutions