Methane Emissions Reduction Program
The Methane Emissions Reduction Program supports Virginia natural gas well operators in plugging wells and reclaiming sites, prioritizing shut-in and marginal producers to reduce methane emissions.
Funder: Virginia Department of Energy
Due Dates: Not stated
Funding Amounts: $2,643,702 in total federal funding
Summary: Funds operators to plug natural gas wells and reclaim sites to reduce methane emissions in Virginia.
Key Information: Shut-in and marginally producing wells are first in line for funding.
Description
The Virginia Department of Energy runs the Methane Emissions Reduction Program through its Gas and Oil program. It funds the plugging of natural gas wells and reclamation of their sites to lower methane emissions across the Commonwealth. Funding comes from the National Energy Technology Laboratory, part of the U.S. Department of Energy, under an agreement with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Virginia Energy is prioritizing wells that have been shut in or produce less than 5,000 cubic feet of natural gas per day. It estimates that about 250 wells meet its criteria. Operators apply for funding and complete the work at approved sites.
