EPA Updates Rule to Allow Limited Routine Flaring at New Oil Wells
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has updated federal regulations to permit limited routine flaring of associated gas at new oil wells under specific conditions, extending beyond the 2026 phaseout deadline. This regulatory update applies to oil and natural gas wells that begin construction after May 7, 2024. The change provides operators with more flexibility in managing associated gas, particularly in areas where takeaway or infrastructure constraints exist. Industry groups, such as the Independent Petroleum Association of America (IPAA), have welcomed the clarification, noting it offers essential regulatory guidance for independent producers. The policy is part of broader federal efforts to regulate methane emissions and associated gas handling in upstream oil and gas operations. 
