EPA Tightens Reins on Diesel Fuel in Fracking
The Diesel Dilemma Unveiled
In 2011, the natural gas industry faced a startling revelation. Consequently, over32 million gallons of diesel fuel and its by-products had been secretly pumped into the ground, potentially contaminating drinking water sources. This shocking discovery contradicted the industry’s previous denials about using diesel in fracking fluids.
EPA’s Response: Regulation and Guidance
Permitting Requirements Established
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) swiftly responded to this crisis. As a result, they implemented strict permitting requirements for the use of diesel fuels in hydraulic fracturing. Furthermore, the agency released comprehensive guidance in 2014 to clarify these requirements.
Key Components of EPA’s Approach
- Mandatory Permits: Oil and gas operators must now obtain a UIC Class II permit before injecting diesel fuels for hydraulic fracturing.
- Clear Definitions: The EPA provided a precise interpretation of “diesel fuels” for permitting purposes.
- Detailed Guidelines: The agency outlined existing UIC Class II program requirements specifically for diesel fuel use in fracking.
- Support for Permit Writers: Guidance was issued to assist EPA permit writers in preparing UIC Class II permits for diesel fuel use in hydraulic fracturing.
Beyond Diesel: Comprehensive Fracking Regulations
Broader Exemptions and Oversight
While the Energy Policy Act of 2005 created a broad exemption for hydraulic fracturing under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), this exemption notably excludes the use of diesel fuel. Consequently, the EPA maintains regulatory authority over fracking operations that employ diesel fuels.
Wastewater Management
Additionally, the EPA oversees the disposal of wastewater from hydraulic fracturing activities. This oversight includes permitting for Class II disposal wells, which are used to reinject brines and other fluids produced during oil and gas extraction.
Industry Impact and Environmental Protection
Stricter Standards for Diesel Fuel
The EPA’s regulations have led to a significant reduction in sulfur content in diesel fuel. For instance, ultra-low sulfur diesel (ULSD) with only 15 parts per million of sulfur is now the standard for both onroad and nonroad uses.
Emission Reduction Goals
These stringent diesel standards aim to reduce harmful emissions from both onroad and nonroad diesel sources by more than 90%. This reduction plays a crucial role in protecting air quality and public health.
Looking Ahead: Ongoing Vigilance
The EPA continues to monitor and adjust its regulations to ensure the protection of drinking water sources and public health. Moreover, the agency remains committed to transparency and efficiency in its permitting processes for hydraulic fracturing activities.
As the fracking industry evolves, so too must the regulatory framework surrounding it. Therefore, ongoing collaboration between the EPA, state agencies, and industry stakeholders is essential to maintain a balance between energy production and environmental protection.
Resources
1.”Waxman, Markey, and DeGette Investigation Finds Continued Use of Diesel in Hydraulic Fracturing Fluids”, Committee on Energy and Commerce, 1/31/2011.
2. “Evaluation of Impacts to Underground Sources of Drinking Water by Hydraulic Fracturing of Coalbed Methane Reservoirs” U.S. EPA, June 2004.
3. “Public Health Statement for Benzene”, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, August 2007.
4. Basic Information about Toluene, Ethylbenzene, and Xylenes in Drinking Water, U.S. EPA website.
