Update Part II – Texas RRC implements Planned restriction on Deep Injection in Culberson SRA

This one will probably come as no surprise to those of you following things closely. The Texas RRC announced Tuesday December 19th an outright ban on Deep Disposal in the Culberson SRA effective January 12, 2024.

Starting January 12, 2024, about 215,000 BPD of produced water will be looking for a new outlet. Actually the number is lower, as 215,000 was the average daily rate throughout year to date, according to RRC data. EnergyMaker’s showed about 106,000 BPD was injecting most recently, as operators had decreased injection volumes substantially over more recent months. A rough loss for those operators and SWD owners who invested so heavily in these deep expensive assets!

The announcement was anticipated; the RRC projected this action approximately one year ago as part of its seismic response plan, and we among others projected the high likelihood the “triggering” earthquake event (a 4.5 M or greater in the next 19 months…) would occur. And it did. So here we are.
Our industries’ midstream network is about to be stressed; there is a need for long-term strategic thinking and cross-collaboration throughout this critical supply chain!
Beneficial Reuse needs to be accelerated, too.