Orphan or Abandoned Well Plugging Program (OAWP)
Funds projects in Pennsylvania to plug and remediate orphaned or abandoned oil and gas wells, reducing environmental and public health risks.
Funder: Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development
Due Dates (Anticipated): February 2027 (application opens) | May 2027 (full application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Up to $1,000,000 per project; single-year awards; total funding subject to annual allocation.
Summary: Supports plugging and remediation of orphaned or abandoned oil and gas wells in Pennsylvania to address environmental, health, and safety risks.
Description
The Orphan or Abandoned Well Plugging Program (OAWP) provides funding for projects that address the environmental, health, and safety hazards posed by abandoned and orphaned oil and gas wells across Pennsylvania. Established under Act 13 of 2012 and funded through the Marcellus Legacy Fund, the program supports activities such as cleaning out and plugging wells, implementing stray gas mitigation systems, and well venting projects. The goal is to reduce hazards, improve community safety, and enhance environmental quality in affected areas.
