The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) is preparing for the launch of the Texas Voluntary Marginal Conventional Well Plugging Program (TxMCW) and requesting public feedback on its Well Prioritization Plan. The new federally funded plugging program aims to reduce methane, criteria pollutants, and other air emissions across the state. Currently in development, the prioritization plan details how TxMCW will select wells for plugging to maximize methane emission reductions, focusing on factors such as emissions and well age.
Beginning in 2025, TxMCW will open its application process, offering financial incentives for owners and operators to voluntarily plug low-producing conventional oil and gas wells, commonly referred to as marginal conventional wells. Interested commenters can submit to TxMCW@tceq.texas.gov by November 7 at 5 p.m. Central Time. The final Well Prioritization Plan will be published in November and posted on the program website.
