U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a final rule approving the State of Texas’ request to administer permitting for Class VI underground injection wells under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). With this approval, Texas will implement Underground Injection Control (UIC) programs covering all well-types (Class I-VI), allowing better coordination and improved efficiencies. This action marks the sixth time a state has received primacy for Class VI wells.
“This approval by the EPA recognizes RRC’s expertise to add Class VI wells to our UIC program, to continue our work of protecting Texans and our natural resources,” said Wei Wang, RRC Executive Director. “Additionally, primacy will streamline the application process and provide the regulatory certainty that is critical to Texas, which is one of the most productive energy regions in the world.”
The final rule will become effective 30 days after publication in the Federal Register. Publication is expected to be delayed due to a lapse in government funding.
The RRC has received 18 applications and is aware of additional projects that are being planned by industry in Texas.
For more information on the Class VI wells click here.
For more information on UIC click here.
