The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has demanded Colorado to rewrite another air pollution permit for an oil and gas operator in Weld County, signaling concerns about the effectiveness of “flaring” to remove pollutants. The EPA returned part of a permit for the Platteville Natural Gas Processing Plant, stating that regulators must ensure there is enough monitoring in place to guarantee the removal of 95% of volatile organic compound emissions.
The Center for Biological Diversity, which brought the objection, sees this as a crucial issue in the state’s efforts to reduce ozone and greenhouse gas emissions from the oil and gas industry. The group believes that if flares are not functioning effectively, the regulatory framework is compromised.
The Platteville processor, owned by DCP Operating Company, was part of a $3.25 million fine in 2022 for failing to detect and repair leaks contributing to ozone problems. The latest EPA order did not approve all objections but requires Colorado officials to respond within 90 days and issue a revised permit.
The Center for Biological Diversity is pushing for real-time monitoring of emissions to ensure permits are enforceable. This latest action by the EPA is seen as a step towards holding Colorado accountable for ensuring that flares and permits actually work to reduce pollution. The EPA’s decision highlights the importance of factual data in regulating air quality standards in the state.
