Researchers hope to spur initiative to plug orphaned wells by identifying methane ‘super emitters’
Thursday, August 5, 2021
The US Environmental Protection Agency pegs the number of unplugged, abandoned oil and gas wells scattered across the country at about 2 million. Other experts believe that number is higher and some estimate it’s lower, according to the Journal of Petroleum Technology.
Regardless of how many there are, experts believe orphaned wells are a growing problem for the environment.
Natalie Pekney, an environmental engineer with the US Department of Energy’s National Energy Technology Laboratory, and her team hope to increase the urgency for plugging orphaned wells by identifying those with the largest methane emissions or “super emitters.”
Ultimately, Pekney hopes to assist states in establishing plugging prioritization of abandoned wells.
Learn more: Journal of Petroleum Technology > Hide and seek: The orphan well problem in America
Leave a Comment
Marcellus & Utica Shale Well Map
Additional Shale Maps
Shale FAQ
What are mineral rights?
Mineral rights are the rights of the owner of the property to mine or produce any resources below the surface of the property. Mineral rights are different from surface rights.
Will I get free natural gas if I allow fracking on my property?
Maybe. It depends on your particular lease agreement. Some companies allow property owners a yearly free gas allowance. But, the process of connecting your property to the gas source may be more complicated. Some companies will provide a hookup, others require the landowner to provide one.