Methane Clips: January 3, 2023

 

Michigan Heightens Efforts To Plug Orphan Wells Amid Climate Change Concerns. According to BNN, “In a bold stride towards combating climate change, Michigan intensifies its efforts to plug orphan oil and gas wells, a move aimed squarely at mitigating methane emissions. Orphan wells, abandoned or improperly sealed wells that lack a responsible owner, have been a longstanding environmental concern. Michigan’s initiative gained momentum after securing a $25 million grant from the U.S. Department of Interior, a significant boost from its usual $1 million annual budget. In 2023 alone, Michigan managed to plug nearly half of its known 450 orphan wells, a major milestone in its quest to seal all identified wells within the next few years. This initiative traces its roots back to 30 years ago, and over this period, approximately 400 sites have been successfully sealed or cleaned.” [BNN, 1/2/24 (=)]

 

Governor Hochul Announces $8 Million Awarded To New York State Under Inflation Reduction Act To Reduce Methane Emissions From Oil And Gas Wells. According to Local Content, “Governor Kathy Hochul today announced the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy awarded New York State $8 million from the Methane Emissions Reduction Program. The funds, included in the Inflation Reduction Act, bolster New York’s ongoing efforts to help reduce climate-altering greenhouse gas emissions from oil and gas infrastructure, as well as protect ground and surface waters. ‘New Yorkers are feeling the impacts of climate change all across the State, and in response we are taking bold action and building a stronger, more resilient New York with the help of record State and Federal resources,’ Governor Hochul said. ‘The Biden-Harris Administration and our federal partners are recognizing the importance of reducing harmful greenhouse gas emissions through the Methane Emissions Reduction Program, and strengthening New York’s commitment to confronting the existential threat of climate change head on.’” [Local Content, 1/2/24 (=)]