EPAFinal Rule

Congressional Review Act Revocation of Waste Emissions Charge for Petroleum and Natural Gas Systems: Procedures for Facilitating Compliance, Including Netting and Exemptions

EnergyEnvironment

Summary

This regulation eliminates a fee that the federal government had planned to charge oil and natural gas companies for methane emissions—a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. The rule explains how companies can stop complying with the old requirements and what flexibility they have in adjusting their operations.

Key Points

  • 1The EPA is canceling a waste emissions charge (fee) that would have required oil and natural gas companies to pay for methane pollution they release
  • 2Companies that were preparing to comply with the old rule can now use 'netting'—meaning they can count reductions in emissions at some facilities to offset emissions at others
  • 3Certain small operations or specific circumstances may be exempt from the previous requirements entirely
  • 4This change removes financial incentives for oil and gas producers to reduce methane leaks and emissions into the atmosphere
  • 5The regulation could affect air quality and climate goals, though oil and gas companies will face lower compliance costs

Key Dates

Published

May 19, 2025

This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the regulation. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.

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