EPA Looks for Ways to Speed up CO2 Well Permits

by Carlos Anchondo (Politico Pro) The federal agency said the permitting process for carbon dioxide wells could be streamlined. -- EPA told lawmakers it’s taking steps to improve the permitting process for wells used to inject carbon dioxide underground, following calls to shorten the current timeline.

In a 41-page report, the agency identified strategies to reduce the amount of time it takes to issue a Class VI permit, which is required for the geologic sequestration of CO2. Steps include early engagement with permit applicants, the development of a sample Class VI application and resources for EPA staff “to standardize and expedite the application review process,” EPA said in the report.

Carbon capture proponents have said it currently takes too long for EPA to grant a Class VI permit, an issue that could worsen as more project developers pursue dedicated geologic storage of CO2 (Energywire, Oct. 3). Additional companies are considering the use of Class VI wells in part because of enhancements to the federal 45Q tax credit, an incentive for carbon capture and removal projects, according to the EPA document. READ MORE