New Mexico Oil, Natural Gas Methane Controls Lack Oversight for Low-Producing Wells, Says EDF

Draft regulations in New Mexico to limit methane emissions from the oil and gas sector must be strengthened by removing loopholes for low-producing wells, according to an analysis by the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF).

The proposed rules were unveiled in July by the New Mexico Environmental Department (NMED) and Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department (EMNRD).

EDF on Friday published an updated estimate of oil and gas methane emissions in the state, finding that annual emissions stand at an estimated 1.1 million metric tons. This is equal to the near-term climate impact of 25 coal-fired power plants and about five times higher than what current Environmental Protection Agency data suggest, EDF said.

In addition to methane, the industry also emits an estimated...