Improving Environmental Safety, Managed Emissions, and Sustainable Resource Extraction

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The British Columbia Energy Regulator (BCER) has issued an order that, starting on January 1, 2025, modifies three key regulations concerning drilling, oil and gas processing, and pipelines. These amendments affect the Drilling and Production Regulation (B.C. Reg. 282/2010), the Oil and Gas Processing Facility Regulation (B.C. Reg. 48/2021), and the Pipeline Regulation (B.C. Reg. 281/2010). The changes aim to improve environmental safety, manage emissions, and promote sustainable resource extraction.

In the Drilling and Production Regulation, several sections have been revised. Section 4(1) now includes new sub-paragraphs that introduce standards for emission control. Section 18 was amended to tighten requirements for surface casing, ensuring proper cementing and the presence of emissions control mechanisms. Section 41, which addresses venting and emissions during well operations, now requires well permit holders to maintain detailed records of natural gas venting and take steps to reduce emissions. New limits on natural gas emissions will take effect in 2026, with further obligations related to leak detection and well pressurization by 2030. Facilities must install fixed leak monitoring devices on production tanks starting in 2028.

Amendments to the Oil and Gas Processing Facility Regulation focus on controlling natural gas emissions from facility equipment. Section 52.021 introduces strict conditions for venting natural gas, which is allowed only under certain circumstances and must be justified by a certified professional engineer. Facilities that started operations before January 2022 have limited exemptions until 2028, when tighter controls come into effect. After 2028, facilities must also comply with new rules for pneumatic devices and pumps to control venting emissions.

The Pipeline Regulation underwent fewer changes but introduced stricter controls on venting and methane emissions to align with broader efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the oil and gas sector.

A major focus of the BCER order is on leak detection and methane control. By 2030, new methane emission limits will apply to pneumatic devices, pumps, and all facilities within a permit holder’s operations. These regulations are part of British Columbia’s broader commitment to reducing emissions in the energy sector while supporting safe, sustainable resource development.

The BCER’s order establishes a regulatory framework designed to improve safety, minimize emissions, and promote environmental responsibility in British Columbia’s oil and gas industry. With compliance deadlines extending to 2035, the changes provide a roadmap for continuous improvement and adaptation to meet the province’s climate goals while supporting economic activity.

British Columbia (256/2024) September 3, 2024