Why is so much methane or natural gas being flared in the Texas Permian Basin?

15 days ago
20

This climate change video discusses a problem that has recently surfaced in the West Texas Permian Basin area. Since later 2023, there has been an increase in oil and natural gas wells. However, the infrastructure needed to support this is lacking such as constructing the additional pipelines and compressor stations. In addition, we cite several other reasons this may be happening. We have the new Methane Tax from the Inflation Reduction Act that is at least $900 - $1500 per ton of methane. Some permits for liquefied natural gas have been halted in the Texas region. Since the layoff of workers for the Keystone Pipeline took place we are also guessing there may be a shortage of skilled pipe fitters and welders. Oil and gas companies are now trying to fix these problems themselves, but it is going to take time. It is estimated that it will cost them billions of dollars to invest in the necessary leak detection and other equipment needed to fix the leaks.

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