EDF Statement on Texas Railroad Commission Decision to Fight Commonsense Methane Protections

Texas’ primary oil and gas regulator, the Texas Railroad Commission, took the unfortunate step today of requesting legal action against EPA’s recently finalized, commonsense methane rules, which will protect public health, limit climate change and prevent waste of natural resources.  

“It is disappointing but unfortunately not surprising that the RRC is once again opposing commonsense action to reduce emissions across the oil and gas industry. Texas oil and gas operators emit more methane than any other state, to the detriment of our communities and our climate. EPA’s cost-effective requirements will cut that pollution while helping to limit waste of our natural resources and create good-paying jobs.  

“Rather than risk Texas jobs, energy entrepreneurship and innovation by fighting commonsense requirements, Texas should focus on implementing these pollution protections so Texas residents and operators alike can reap their benefits. Energy customers and investors around the world are signaling that climate performance will be a key consideration in market decisions. Instead of eroding the ability of Texas producers to gain access to markets demanding cleaner energy, Texas should roll up its sleeves and move forward with pollution reduction measures.” 

Elizabeth Lieberknecht, Regulatory and Legislative Manager, Midcontinent, EDF 

In a July 2023 poll, 66% of Texas voters supported EPA taking action to cut methane emissions from oil and gas operations. Thousands of Texans also supported the EPA methane rule, including diverse stakeholders such as faith-based organizations, taxpayer groups and even oil and gas operators themselves. EPA’s new rules will require operators to monitor their sites for leaks, replace outdated and leaky equipment and phase out the wasteful practice of routine flaring at new wells.   

In 2019, Texas oil and gas operators wasted $1.7 billion-worth of natural gas costing taxpayers $128 million in revenue.