EPA Stalls Gas Drilling Air Rules But Consensus Emerges On Methane Limits

摘要

EPA is struggling to strengthen its highly anticipated package of proposed air quality regulations for oil and gas drilling operations from likely industry challenges and has won an agreement from environmentalists to extend the package's deadline by 90 days, a move that will delay release of final rules until next February. But despite the delay, a new industry study suggests a growing consensus among top EPA officials, environmentalists and others on the efficacy of methane controls - a top priority for supporters of natural gas seeking to limit the fuel's carbon footprint and maintain its profile as a clean energy source.