.jpg)
Kathairos has emerged as the leading North American solution for methane elimination from pneumatics, with more than 2,400 systems in operation across North America and over 70 major oil and gas producer partners.
In this post
Overview
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has introduced a pivotal regulation, 40 CFR Part 60, Subpart OOOOb, effective May 7, 2024. These OOOOb regulations target greenhouse gases (GHG) and volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions from new, modified, and reconstructed sources within the oil and natural gas sector. Key areas of focus include well sites and facilities engaged in production, processing, transmission, and storage. The regulation emphasizes the adoption of advanced technologies for pneumatic controllers and pumps, promising significant reductions in emissions. To ensure OOOOb compliance for oil and gas, operators must implement zero-emission pneumatic systems that aligh with the EPA's updated standards.
The EPA now defines a Super Emitter as any source emitting more than 100 kg CH₄/hour, under its EPA Super Emitter Program. Facilities detected as super emitters face accelerated mitigation requirements. Kathairos’ zero-emission pneumatic solutions help operators avoid EPA Super Emitter status while complying with Subpart OOOOb making retrofit technology critical for both regulatory alignment and emissions reduction.
Eligibility Criteria
"New" facilities refer to those in the crude oil and natural gas sectors that commenced construction post-December 6, 2022, marking the beginning of significant onsite activities. "Reconstructed" facilities are those that have undergone major rebuilding after this date, where the reconstruction costs exceed 50% of the capital cost of a new, similar facility. These definitions are crucial for deciding who needs to comply with the tough emission standards.
Focus on Equipment
Pneumatic controllers, which regulate variables like pressure and fluid levels, and are traditionally high emitters of methane and VOCs, must now meet a zero-emissions standard. Similarly, pumps, vital for fluid movement, must adopt best management practices and implement leak detection and repair programs to minimize emissions.
Compliance Timeline
Operators need to assess their current equipment and transition to compliant units before the May 2024 deadline. This period of evaluation and upgrading is vital for aligning with environmental standards and enhancing operational efficiencies.
Conclusion
EPA’s Subpart OOOOb regulation sets forth robust measures to reduce emissions in the oil and gas industry, focusing on pneumatic controllers and pumps. Adherence to these rules not only ensures compliance but also drives operational improvements and environmental stewardship.
Key Highlights
- Effective Date: Regulations start on May 7, 2024.
- Scope: Targets new, modified, and reconstructed oil and gas operations.
- Key Equipment: Focus on pneumatic controllers and pumps with strict zero-emission and leak repair standards.
- Eligibility: Applies to facilities constructed or significantly rebuilt after December 6, 2022.
- Compliance Urgency: Immediate action required for equipment assessment and upgrades to meet the 2024 deadline.
- Environmental and Operational Benefits: Promotes cleaner technologies and operational efficiency.
For more details, refer to the EPA’s official final rule on oil and natural gas operations.
