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AUSTIN - The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $1,405,949 in enforcement docket fines against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ Conference on Tuesday.  The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety.

Master default orders for operators that failed to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings can be found on the RRC Hearings Division web page.

Master Agreed Orders in which operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules can be found on the RRC General Counsel web page.  

Below is a table outlining the fines assessed.

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

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AUSTIN – After extensive reviews of public comments and stakeholder input, the Railroad Commission of Texas has adopted a significant overhaul of rules regulating oil and gas waste management facilities in Texas. RRC Commissioners voted to adopt the new regulations at their open meeting today.

The regulations cover waste from oil and gas operations, such as rock and other material pulled up from the ground during drilling, as well as waste from other operations for which the Legislature has given the RRC jurisdiction including geothermal, carbon sequestration and brine mining wells.

It is the first overhaul of RRC’s waste management rules in four decades. The new rules help the RRC continue to safeguard groundwater and surface water while adapting to modern waste management practices, such as recycling produced water, and recent advancements in production methods.

The rule updates requirements on the design, construction, operation, monitoring, and closure of waste management units, and will improve the RRC’s ability to track and collect data on oilfield waste transported throughout Texas.

The new rules also codify informal guidance that RRC experts have developed over the course of several decades to give operators and the public certainty on how regulations of waste management facilities are carried out.

The adopted rules will enhance the RRC’s oversight of waste management facilities. The agency now has staff dedicated to environmental permit compliance – a team that reviews waste management facility reports and inspections, and follows-up on those reviews to quickly rectify any issues.

“The oil and gas industry has evolved dramatically since the 1980s. After a years-long process, and with thoughtful and thorough deliberation from the public, agency experts, and industry stakeholders, I am proud to report the Railroad Commission has passed its first overhaul of waste management rules in 40 years,” said Chairman Christi Craddick. “I sincerely appreciate our staff for their hard work in modernizing our agency’s rules to reflect current waste management practices and new advancements in production methods, allowing industry to continue driving economic growth while upholding our commitment to protecting public safety and the environment.”

“It’s been 40 years since these rules were last updated, and the oil and gas industry has grown and changed in ways unimaginable from back then. Updating these regulations was a slow and deliberate process, ensuring we listened to everyone impacted – small operators, landowners, royalty owners, and waste management companies,” said Commissioner Wayne Christian. “I personally hosted meetings with small and mid-sized producers, who shared real concerns about the initial draft, especially regarding pits. We took their feedback seriously, revised the rules and created a version that protects small businesses while safeguarding our environment. The final draft received overwhelming support from industry stakeholders, with opposition coming almost exclusively from radical environmental groups whose ultimate goal is to shut down oil and gas in Texas. This is a win for Texas energy and for commonsense, balanced regulation.”

“By passing this measure today, the Railroad Commission and the State of Texas have taken a significant step forward to align our practices and procedures to account for the considerable changes the industry has experienced in the 40 years since this rule was last reformed,” said Commissioner Jim Wright.  “Thanks to the tremendous effort and dedication of our staff here at the Railroad Commission and the input and participation of the public and stakeholder groups, we have been able to modernize these rules in a way which aligns with the Railroad Commission’s mission, and which will serve our state and citizens well.”

The RRC’s new waste management rules can be found on the RRC website at https://rrc.texas.gov/general-counsel/rules/proposed-rules/  under “Chapter 4: Environmental Protection”.

AUSTIN – In a state with 30 million people and an expanding energy industry, the Railroad Commission’s outreach to educate Texans about the agency’s regulation of the industry has taken on added significance.

In the first quarter of Fiscal Year 2025, staff from various RRC divisions attended 38 events reaching more than 8,000 attendees from municipal leaders to the public.

The events provide an opportunity for staff to share information about the Commission’s jurisdiction over the state's vast energy infrastructure, which includes oil and gas production, natural gas and hazardous liquid pipelines, natural gas utilities, coal and uranium surface mining, as well as newly expanding industries such as carbon dioxide capture and storage operations.

The RRC’s nearly 40 outreach events this fall were a combination of speaking engagements and exhibition booths at events both large and small, including the Texas Municipal League Conference, the Terrell Chamber of Commerce, Texas A&M University, job fairs, and invitations from the Kilgore Lions Club and other communities.  

The engagement helps the agency explain what we do to regulate energy and how we can help resolve issues. It also provides an opportunity to collect valuable feedback from the public.

“From El Paso to East Texas, I’m proud of the great work our agency has done travelling to communities around Texas for outreach,” said Danny Sorrells, RRC Deputy Executive Director. “We get to listen to what people have to say, answer their questions and show our dedication to transparency in protecting public safety and the environment.”

 RRC staff at Texas Municipal League Conference

 RRC presentation to Brazos County emergency planners

Staff from the RRC’s Office of Public Engagement (OPE) help coordinate the agency’s outreach and also utilize subject matter experts from other divisions such Oil and Gas, Pipeline Safety and Critical Infrastructure to educate the public.

If any member of the public wishes to have the RRC speak at an event, a Request an RRC Speaker form is available on OPE’s webpage at https://rrc.texas.gov/public-engagement/.

This week’s news of a new Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) report showed that methane emissions from the largest oil and natural gas-producing basins fell 44 percent between 2011-2013; and also dropped in seven oil and natural gas-producing basins by up to 87 percent from 2019-2023. Following the update, Texas Railroad Commissioner Wayne Christian criticized the Biden Administration for creating new rules and taxes on oil and gas producers and power plants:

“President Biden’s own EPA said the quiet part out loud that the industry is already mitigating methane emissions, revealing that the true motive behind his horrendous policies is to squeeze the life out of the oil and gas industry,” said Commissioner Wayne Christian. “Radical environmentalists love to pick and choose ‘science’ that justifies their ‘sky is falling’ narrative that the world is ending and fossil fuels are to blame. But this couldn’t be further from the truth, just like they like to ignore the fact that EPA regulated emissions are down 78 percent in the last fifty years.

President-elect Trump’s number one priority should be to scrap Biden’s onerous and unnecessary methane rules and taxes attacking Texas oil and gas. These rules are the death knell for small mom and pop operators, who produce more than 83 percent of America’s oil and gas.”

Note: Texas’ statewide flaring rate is stable and low at around 1 percent. This means 99 percent of the natural gas produced in Texas is beneficially used to heat homes, cook food and power the Texas economy.

The Railroad Commission of Texas has hired two seasoned veterans who will help the agency navigate legislative affairs and oversee day-to-day engagement and outreach with the public and the media.

Matt Cope has joined the agency as Director of Government Relations. Cope previously worked for the University of Texas at Tyler as the Associate Vice President for Government Relations. His prior experience also includes work as a policy advisor in the Texas Senate and the Governor’s Office, and as a legislative aide in the Texas House of Representatives. He also spent some time as a wildland firefighter for the U.S. Forest Service.

“I’m excited to start working for the oldest and most respected regulatory agency in Texas, and to collaborate with the Legislature and other governmental entities to achieve our mission,” said Matt Cope, RRC Government Relations Director. “As we approach an important legislative session, I look forward to assisting in the agency’s work to protect the state’s environment and communities while promoting the responsible production of energy.”

Christian Goff joined the RRC as the Director of Public Affairs, overseeing the agency’s communications and public engagement activities. Goff is a communications and public affairs professional specializing in stakeholder relations, issue advocacy and reputation management. She has extensive experience and deep-rooted knowledge of the energy and natural resource industries.

Prior to joining the RRC, Goff founded and ran a communications firm.  Her prior experience also includes serving as vice president of corporate affairs at an international public relations firm as well as a public affairs specialist for Marathon Oil Corporation in Houston.

“I am thrilled to serve in my new role at the Railroad Commission of Texas,” said Christian Goff, RRC Director of Public Affairs. “The RRC is one of the state’s most vital organizations, helping to manage our natural resources, while protecting both the public and the environment. I look forward to collaborating with all stakeholders and educating Texans on the important work of the Commission and the industries it regulates.”

Matt Cope, RRC Director of Government Relations

Christian Goff, RRC Director of Public Affairs

The Railroad Commission of Texas issued a total of 613 original drilling permits in November 2024. The total includes 565 to drill new oil or gas wells, 9 to re-enter plugged wellbores, 1 field transfers, 31 for re-completions, and 7 reclass of existing wellbores.

The breakdown of well types for total original drilling permits in November 2024 is: 143 oil, 46 gas, 401 oil and gas, 12 injection, 3 service and 8 other permits.

In November 2024, Commission staff processed 837 oil, 155 gas, and 1,044 injection completions for new drills, re-entries and re-completions.

Detailed data on drilling permits and well completions for the month can be found at this link:

https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/drilling-information/monthly-drilling-completion-and-plugging-summaries/

TABLE 1 – November 2024 TEXAS OIL AND GAS NEW DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT*

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After nearly a year of extensive analysis, the Texas Hydrogen Production Policy Council (Council) has delivered a report to the Texas Legislature outlining actionable steps to bolster Texas’ leadership in the hydrogen industry.  

The 11-member Council, established by the Legislature and chaired by RRC Chairman Christi Craddick, was tasked with making recommendations to lawmakers on updates necessary for the oversight and regulation of production, pipeline transportation, and storage of hydrogen.

The hydrogen industry is already well-established in Texas, primarily serving the petrochemical and refining industries. For over 50 years, hydrogen has been produced in dozens of facilities throughout the state. Pure hydrogen pipelines, extending over 1,000 miles, have been operating safely in Texas, supporting the industry’s robust infrastructure.

Texas’ existing hydrogen infrastructure and comprehensive regulatory framework for safety and environmental compliance have contributed to the state’s current standing as a global leader in conventional hydrogen production.

While the report recommends that Texas leverage its existing regulatory structure to lead the charge on hydrogen policy, it also specifies areas where there is room for enhancement or a need for new frameworks. Examples include leak detection requirements specifically for hydrogen, and additional rules to address hydrogen infrastructure, such as pipeline and casing materials, separately from infrastructure used for other products.

The report also highlights the potential economic opportunities tied to hydrogen industry growth for Texas. Expanding hydrogen production could enhance manufacturing and electricity generation while supporting increased production of a low-cost, reliable hydrogen energy supply. This expansion would not only support job growth, but would also underpin infrastructure development and direct investment, leading to an increase in the state's Gross Domestic Product.

The Council is planned to continue until January 1, 2030, and the recommendations in the report are expected to be reviewed and modified as technologies, markets, and hydrogen regulations evolve.

A copy of the Council’s report can be found at https://www.rrc.texas.gov/media/4knabnt2/texas-hydrogen-production-policy-council-report-1224.pdf

The members of the Texas Hydrogen Production Policy Council are as follows:

RRC Chairman Christi Craddick; Richard Fenza (Air Liquide); Preston Kurtz (Air Products & Chemicals); Nigel Jenvey (Baker Hughes); Keith Wall (CenterPoint Energy); Ian Lindsay (Chevron New Energies); Angie Murray (Enterprise Products); Brian Weeks (GTI Energy); Jeffrey Pollack (Port of Corpus Christi Authority); Brian Korgel (University of Texas at Austin); Kelsie Van Hoose (Williams Companies).

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Statewide and county crude oil and natural gas production for September 2024 reported in the tables below came from 158,437 oil wells and 84,110 gas wells.

Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC. For full oil and gas production statistics, you can visit the links below.

Statewide totals: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production/

County rankings: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production-by-county-ranking/

TABLE 1 - September 2024 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION*

* These are preliminary figures based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received.

TABLE 2 - September 2023 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION

TABLE 3 – September 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 4 – September 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 5 – September 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

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The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $1,899, 288 in fines involving 452 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ Conference on Tuesday.  The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety.

Master default orders for operators that failed to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings can be found on the RRC Hearings Division web page.

Master Agreed Orders in which operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules can be found on the RRC General Council web page.  

Below is a table outlining the fines assessed.

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

###

The Railroad Commission of Texas issued a total of 646 original drilling permits in October 2024. The total includes 589 to drill new oil or gas wells, 5 to re-enter plugged wellbores, 1 field transfers, 48 for re-completions, and 2 reclass of existing wellbores.

The breakdown of well types for total original drilling permits in October 2024 is: 139 oil, 34 gas, 415 oil and gas, 38 injection, 3 service and 16 other permits.

In October 2024, Commission staff processed 1,109 oil, 193 gas, and 873 injection completions for new drills, re-entries and re-completions.

Detailed data on drilling permits and well completions for the month can be found at this link:

https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/drilling-information/monthly-drilling-completion-and-plugging-summaries/

TABLE 1 – October 2024 TEXAS OIL AND GAS NEW DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT*

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Statewide and county crude oil and natural gas production for August 2024 reported in the tables below came from 158,025 oil wells and 83,885 gas wells.

Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC. For full oil and gas production statistics, you can visit the links below.

Statewide totals: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production/

County rankings: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production-by-county-ranking/

TABLE 1 - August 2024 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION*

* These are preliminary figures based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received. 

TABLE 2 - August 2023 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION

TABLE 3 – August 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 4 – August 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 5 – August 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

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AUSTIN – With more than 15 million records digitized in the past year, the Railroad Commission of Texas now has 83.4 million oil and gas records that can be searched and viewed online from anywhere in the world.

The enormous amount of work is part of the RRC’s ongoing success increasing transparency and making the vast trove of information held at the agency easily available to the public. 

As the oldest regulatory agency in Texas, the RRC has oil and gas records dating back to the 1930’s on paper in district offices and on microfilm. The agency has been digitizing those records and placing the images online for several years, allowing anyone with internet access to view them.

Documents that have been digitized include oil and gas production records and well completion records that contain information such as well depths and producing fields of a well. These records are used often by researchers, landowners, royalty owners, energy companies and public information requesters.

RRC District Office paper records transported for digitization

“Putting millions and millions of oil and gas records online is a win-win for the public and the agency,” said Danny Sorrells, RRC Deputy Executive Director. “Not only does it give the public easy access to historical information dating back almost 100 years, but our staff can now devote the time they would have spent tracking those records for the public for other tasks at the agency.”

District office paper records and microfilm records that have been digitized can be found on this RRC webpage:

https://www.rrc.texas.gov/resource-center/research/research-queries/imaged-records/imaged-records-menu/

The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $1,107,072 in fines involving 269 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ Conference on Tuesday.  The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety.

Master default orders for operators that failed to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings can be found on the RRC Hearings Division web page.

Master Agreed Orders in which operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules can be found on the RRC General Council web page.  

Below is a table outlining the fines assessed.

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

###

The Railroad Commission of Texas issued a total of 626 original drilling permits in September 2024. The total includes 580 to drill new oil or gas wells, 6 to re-enter plugged wellbores, 9 field transfers, 27 for re-completions, and 4 reclass of existing wellbores.

The breakdown of well types for total original drilling permits in September 2024 is: 116 oil, 29 gas, 445 oil and gas, 29 injection, 1 service and 6 other permits.

In September 2024, Commission staff processed 942 oil, 224 gas, and 422 injection completions for new drills, re-entries and re-completions.

Detailed data on drilling permits and well completions for the month can be found at this link:

https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/drilling-information/monthly-drilling-completion-and-plugging-summaries/

TABLE 1 – September2024 TEXAS OIL AND GAS NEW DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT

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The Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) continued its strong track record of surpassing high standards set by the Texas Legislature to help protect public safety and the environment.

The Legislature sets annual performance measures for state agencies, and in Fiscal Year 2024 the RRC extended its string of success meeting or exceeding those measures in regulating the oil and gas industry, intrastate pipelines, surface mining, and alternative fuels.

The annual goals the agency exceeded ranged from the number of orphaned wells plugged with state funds to the number of individuals certified who store and transport propane gas across Texas.

“The performance numbers are a reflection of our staff’s dedication to serve Texas,” said Danny Sorrells, RRC Deputy Executive Director. “We help ensure safe production and transportation of the abundant resources that Texas is blessed with, which not only helps meet the energy demand of our growing state, but national and international demand as well. The agency is also looking forward to the future as we work on implementing regulations for new energy resources authorized by the Legislature.”

Legislative goals the RRC exceeded in Fiscal Year 2024 include:

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For more than three decades, National Energy Awareness Month has been celebrated in October to highlight the importance of the nation’s energy resources and the need for the sustainable management of those resources.

Since the Industrial Revolution, fossil fuels have made our modern world possible by producing nearly 80 percent of global energy. Produced hydrocarbons play a crucial role in our lives, from providing fuels for transportation, electricity and heating to manufacturing everyday consumer materials like plastics, medicine, medical devices, fabrics, fertilizers and other byproducts of oil refining, such as asphalt for roads.

As the regulator of the largest oil and gas producing state in the nation, the Railroad Commission plays a vital role in the stewardship of natural resources and in ensuring public safety, while supporting the state’s long-term economic vitality in the energy landscape. Examples of that RRC mission are many.

Take gas flaring in the state as one example. Despite a record year for oil and gas production in 2023, Texas saw a significant reduction in its flaring rate at facilities. The Commission has taken concrete steps to reduce flaring by tightening procedures to flare gas, providing incentives for using flaring reduction technologies, and requiring operators to provide specific justification for their need to flare. The numbers bear witness to those steps. Since June 2019, the flaring rate in Texas, which is the percentage of the amount of gas flared compared to the amount of gas produced, has dropped by 63 percent. According to data from July 2024, the flaring rate was under one percent, meaning that more than 99 percent of gas produced in the state was being beneficially used!

Another energy-related issue the RRC has recently tackled head on is that of seismic activity possibly caused by underground injection of produced water, a byproduct of oil and gas production, into disposal wells. While this disposal process is vital to production, the RRC has leveraged modern technology to mitigate seismic risks. The agency now employs automation and machine learning to help staff with seismic reviews in the permitting process for disposal wells. A machine learning algorithm helps manage the large volume of information that needs to be processed, which allows technical analysts to perform their jobs more efficiently.

These are a few examples of how the RRC, which has regulated the oil and gas industry for more than a century, seeks innovative ways to protect Texas.

“Texas is the national leader in energy production,” said Chairman Christi Craddick. “Energy Awareness Month is a great opportunity to highlight the positive impact this industry has on Texas, the U.S., and the world. I’m proud to lead the regulatory agency that provides responsible and reasonable regulation to the oil and gas industry and look forward to Texas continuing to lead in this critical field.”

“Most Texans don’t realize the immense value of our state’s oil and gas production which powers more than just the state, it fuels the nation and world,” said Commissioner Wayne Christian. “According to the Texas Oil and Gas Association, if Texas were its own nation, the Lone Star State would be the third largest producer of natural gas and the fourth largest producer of oil. If America wants low power costs, energy independence and geopolitical stability, it will need federal policies that encourage a robust oil and gas sector and enable exports of that reliable energy to the rest of the world. So long as the need for reliable energy continues to grow with the developing world, ‘Texas Tea’ will always be there to quench that thirst.” 

“Texas natural resources not only power the diverse economy of our state, they also provide the fuel necessary to maintain U.S. energy independence and support the growing energy needs of our friends and allies across the globe,” said Commissioner Jim Wright. “Access to affordable, abundant energy resources like those produced here in Texas is a blessing which, too often, is taken for granted. That is why it is important that all Americans recognize the valuable contributions hydrocarbons play in our everyday lives and the important work being done by the Railroad Commission to keep Texas energy on track.”

Energy Awareness Month also highlights how consumers can help take steps to sustain natural resources. For more information and resources about how you can increase your energy awareness, visit https://www.rrc.texas.gov/about-us/energy-awareness-month/.

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Texas has been at the forefront of energy regulation and innovation for more than a century, and the RRC has new proposed rules for public comment to administer legislation in the geothermal energy front in Texas.

Senate Bill 786 transfers regulatory authority of closed-loop geothermal injection wells from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to the Railroad Commission, allowing the RRC jurisdiction and permitting authority for these types of wells.

The new rules specifically address shallow closed-loop geothermal systems, including the associated injection wells, which are used to heat or cool buildings without conversion to electricity.

The RRC is the primary agency that has oversight of injection wells, and transferring regulatory authority for shallow closed-loop geothermal injection wells to the Commission will streamline the process for operators who want to drill and operate geothermal injection wells of this type. The proposed rules require engineering and infrastructure safety measures to ensure protection of groundwater.

The proposed new rules and comment forms are available online at https://www.rrc.texas.gov/general-counsel/rules/proposed-rules/ under Chapter 6. Geothermal Resources. The deadline for comments is November 12, 2024.

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Statewide and county crude oil and natural gas production for July 2024 reported in the tables below came from 158,063 oil wells and 83,833 gas wells.

Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC. For full oil and gas production statistics, you can visit the links below.

Statewide totals: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production/

County rankings: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production-by-county-ranking/

TABLE 1 - July 2024 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION*

* These are preliminary figures based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received.

TABLE 2 - July 2023 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION

TABLE 3 – July 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 4 – July 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 5 – July 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

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The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $2,308,419.00 in fines involving 656 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ Conference on Tuesday.  The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety.

Master default orders for operators that failed to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings can be found on the RRC Hearings Division web page.

Master Agreed Orders in which operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules can be found on the RRC General Council web page.  

Below is a table outlining the fines assessed.

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

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RRC inspectors are on site at the Incident Command of Monday’s pipeline fire in the La Porte/Deer Park area.  Energy Transfer continues to blow down the remaining gas in the pipeline section which could last into this afternoon.

Once emergency officials have deemed the scene to be safe, RRC inspectors will enter the site and begin their investigation; this would be in addition to any investigations by emergency authorities.

Railroad Commission of Texas pipeline safety inspectors are investigating the fire that occurred at an Energy Transfer natural gas liquid pipeline in La Porte Monday morning. Energy Transfer has shut down the portion of the pipeline that caught fire. RRC inspectors will work with state and local emergency responders at the scene.

The fire occurred in a pipeline corridor, and the RRC is notifying other pipeline operators in the corridor of the incident and getting information on measures they are taking to ensure safety of their systems.

Statewide and county crude oil and natural gas production for June 2024 reported in the tables below came from 160,220 oil wells and 84,738 gas wells.

Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC. For full oil and gas production statistics, you can visit the links below.

Statewide totals: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production/

County rankings: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production-by-county-ranking/

TABLE 1 - June 2024 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION*

* These are preliminary figures based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received.

TABLE 2 - June 2023 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION

TABLE 3 – June 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 4 – June 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 5 – June 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

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The final numbers have been tallied, and the Railroad Commission plugged 1,012 orphan wells in Fiscal Year 2024 using state funds. This exceeded the fiscal year’s goal of plugging 1,000 wells with state funds, making it the eighth year in a row in which the RRC has surpassed its legislative target!

State funds that are used by the RRC to plug wells are from oil and gas industry revenue, including, but not limited to, well plugging reimbursements, fees and bonds or other financial securities paid by the industry.

“We continue to be a national leader in addressing orphaned wells,” said Danny Sorrells, RRC Deputy Executive Director. “Our extensive well plugging experience dates to 1984, and elements of our program, such as a prioritization system that ensures high-risk, high-priority wells are plugged, have been copied by other states. The design of RRC’s plugging program and our dedicated staff help us quickly work to protect groundwater around the state.”

Watch this video from the field to see more on how the RRC’s decades of well plugging experience helps protect Texas communities and the environment https://youtu.be/QrT0ox-Wtvk.

                                                                                                 # # #

The Railroad Commission of Texas issued a total of 814 original drilling permits in August 2024. The total includes 768 to drill new oil or gas wells, 8 to re-enter plugged wellbores, 2 field transfers and 36 for re-completions of existing wellbores.

The breakdown of well types for total original drilling permits in August 2024 is: 138 oil, 54 gas, 600 oil and gas, 9 injection, 3 service and 10 other permits.

In August 2024, Commission staff processed 722 oil, 175 gas, and 388 injection completions for new drills, re-entries and re-completions.

Detailed data on drilling permits and well completions for the month can be found at this link:

https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/drilling-information/monthly-drilling-completion-and-plugging-summaries/

TABLE 1 – August 2024 TEXAS OIL AND GAS NEW DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT*

                                                                                            # # #

The Railroad Commission of Texas continues to take public input on proposed rules to revamp the agency’s critical rules regulating waste management facilities in Texas.

This is the first overhaul of RRC’s waste management rules in four decades. The proposed rules factor safety and groundwater protection as well as technological advancements in the energy industry’s resource development in Texas.

The public comment period on the proposed rules opened on August 16 and will continue through September 30. This week the RRC will also hold two hearings for public input on the proposed rules.  One hearing will be held in-person on Thursday in Austin, and the RRC will hold a virtual hearing on Friday. More information on both hearings, including how they can be viewed via webcast, can be found on the RRC website.

Persons who have requests for special communication or accommodation needs for the hearings can contact the RRC Rules Coordinator at rulescoordinator@rrc.texas.gov.

Information on the proposed waste management rule amendments can be viewed on the RRC website at https://www.rrc.texas.gov/general-counsel/rules/proposed-rules/ under Chapters 3 and 4.

                                                                                        # # #

AUSTIN - RRC Commissioners voted to publish for public comment proposed amendments that are critical to updating the agency’s rules regulating waste management facilities.

This is the first overhaul of RRC’s waste management rules in four decades. Groundwater protection is a major factor in the rule amendments, and they also take into consideration the need for historical rules to adapt to technological advancements in the energy industry’s resource development in Texas.

The amendments pertain to not only waste from oil and gas operations, such as rock and other material pulled up from the ground during drilling, but also encapsulate waste from other operations for which the Legislature has given the RRC jurisdiction. Examples include geothermal, carbon sequestration and brine mining wells.

The proposed rule updates requirements on the design, construction, operation, monitoring, and closure of waste management units, and help improve the Commission’s ability to track and collect data on oilfield waste transported throughout Texas.

Many of the amendments codify informal guidance that the RRC has developed over the course of several decades and would give operators and the public certainty on how regulations of waste management facilities are carried out.

The proposed rule also allows residents more time to protest waste management permit applications. Among the changes to the process is an extended time frame for a person to file a protest, from the current 15 days to 30 days.

The RRC’s forward-thinking approach to protecting the public and groundwater resources is not just limited to the amendments to the waste management rules. The Commission now has a team that is dedicated to environmental permit compliance. That team reviews waste management facility reports and inspections and follows-up on those reviews to quickly rectify any issues.

“This proposed rule reflects the hard work and dedication of agency staff and stakeholders on this critical rule,” said Chairman Christi Craddick. “I am grateful to Commissioner Wright for his leadership on this important matter and look forward to reviewing public input as we work toward final adoption of our solid waste rule amendments.”

“The Railroad Commission continues to prove that a robust, responsible oil and gas industry can thrive while also ensuring a safe and clean environment for all,” said Commissioner Wayne Christian. “Right next to oil and gas, water is becoming perhaps the most valuable natural resource in Texas. As an EPA commended agency for ground water protection, the Commission takes safeguarding water extremely seriously, and this rule update makes certain that industry is taking every precaution possible toward protecting the public. I’m proud of the hard work by our Commission staff and look forward to this rule continuing to bolster the RRC’s historic legacy as a world-class regulatory agency.”

“Today’s draft rule represents an important step forward with respect to the Railroad Commission’s expectations regarding waste management practices,” said Commissioner Jim Wright. “It has been 40 years since the Commission last made significant updates to this rule, and today’s proposal is an acknowledgment that considerable changes have occurred in terms of technology and industry practices now being utilized. I thank the Railroad Commission staff for their tireless work on behalf of our state and look forward to reviewing the public’s feedback on this important issue as we work towards final adoption.”   

The proposed rule and information on public comments can be found on the RRC website at https://www.rrc.texas.gov/general-counsel/rules/proposed-rules/ under Chapters 3 and 4.

The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $2,173,382.40 in fines involving 715 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ Conference on Thursday.  The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety.

Master default orders for operators that failed to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings can be found on the RRC Hearings Division web page.

Master Agreed Orders in which operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules can be found on the RRC General Council web page.  

Below is a table outlining the fines assessed.

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

The Railroad Commission of Texas issued a total of 771 original drilling permits in July 2024. The total includes 685 to drill new oil or gas wells, 12 to re-enter plugged wellbores and 68 for re-completions of existing wellbores.

The breakdown of well types for total original drilling permits in July 2024 is: 137 oil, 48 gas, 544 oil and gas, 28 injection, and 14 other permits.

In July 2024, Commission staff processed 805 oil, 222 gas, and 355 injection completions for new drills, re-entries and re-completions.

Detailed data on drilling permits and well completions for the month can be found at this link:

https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/drilling-information/monthly-drilling-completion-and-plugging-summaries/

TABLE 1 – July 2024 TEXAS OIL AND GAS NEW DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT*

Statewide and county crude oil and natural gas production for May 2024 reported in the tables below came from 160,233 oil wells and 83,415 gas wells.

Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC. For full oil and gas production statistics, you can visit the links below.

Statewide totals: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production/

County rankings: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production-by-county-ranking/

TABLE 1 - May 2024 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION*

* These are preliminary figures based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received.

TABLE 2 - May 2023 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION

TABLE 3 – May 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 4 – May 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 5 – May 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

AUSTIN – Earlier this week, Texas Railroad Commissioner Jim Wright testified before the U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources where he spoke in favor of bipartisan legislation to provide states with more flexibility to utilize the orphan well plugging funds provided to states under the Infrastructure, Investment, and Jobs Act.

H.R. 7053, the Orphan Well Grant Flexibility Act, would provide states flexibility when it comes to methane monitoring of orphan wells through the Department of the Interior (DOI) Formula Grant program.

“The methane monitoring requirements under the DOI’s current Formula Grant increases the cost to plug these wells,” said Commissioner Wright. “For states with large orphan well populations, increasing plugging costs by 10% means that ultimately there will be 10% fewer wells plugged with these funds.”

While the legislation focuses on the cost of methane monitoring, Commissioner Wright also took the opportunity to highlight several other failures of the DOI’s Orphaned Wells Program Office, specifically the delays Texas has experienced with respect to the Endangered Species Act (ESA) and the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) reviews under the Formula Grant.

“The delays Texas has experienced under the Formula Grant has significantly hindered our ability to plug orphan wells utilizing federal funds,” Commissioner Wright noted. “Texas plugged a total of approximately 730 wells with $25 million through the DOI’s Initial Grant. Unfortunately, due to the increased costs and the extensive delays and reviews required by the DOI, the number of orphan wells plugged with federal funds through the first five months of the Formula Grant is 60% lower than what was plugged during the first five months under the Initial Grant.”

View Commissioner Wright’s written testimony.
View a recording of the hearing.

Railroad Commission geologists and engineers will work with environmental experts from other states to analyze an important agency program that protects underground sources of drinking water.   

The RRC has requested the Groundwater Protection Council (GWPC), a respected organization of national groundwater experts, conduct an independent peer review of its Class II Underground Injection Control (UIC) program. 

Class II injection wells are used for oil and gas operations such as enhanced oil recovery, disposal of produced water (produced water is water that comes out of a well during oil and gas production), and underground hydrocarbon storage.

The GWPC is comprised of more than 30 ground water and environmental regulatory agencies in states spanning coast to coast.  The GWPC conducts peer reviews of a state’s program at the request of that state; UIC programs in California, Kansas and New Mexico have been recently reviewed. The RRC has been a member of the GWPC since its inception in 1983.

The GWPC’s peer reviews include, but are not limited to, an evaluation of the state’s rules, permit application workflows, permit review criteria, protection of underground drinking water, well inspection practices, program funding, and data management.

The RRC’s UIC program has been commended by federal regulators in recent years. The Environmental Protection Agency’s annual evaluations have highlighted RRC’s strong oversight of injection wells in protecting underground sources of drinking water and our continuing efforts to mitigate seismicity in Texas.

“The RRC has had success stories with our UIC program which began in 1982,” said Paul Dubois, RRC Assistant Director of the Oil and Gas Division. “One example is the significant steps we took to help mitigate earthquakes in West Texas by setting injection limits for produced water disposal. We even leveraged artificial intelligence for that work. It’s always good to have a new set of eyes on our mission, and having other states’ experts review our program will help further strengthen our important work.”

GWPC peer reviews are in-depth, and the Texas UIC peer review could take between six months to a year to complete.

                                                                                        # # #

Statewide and county crude oil and natural gas production for April 2024 reported in the tables below came from 163,674 oil wells and 84,739 gas wells.

Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC. For full oil and gas production statistics, you can visit the links below.

Statewide totals: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production/

County rankings: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production-by-county-ranking/

TABLE 1 - April 2024 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION*

* These are preliminary figures based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received.

TABLE 2 - April 2023 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION

TABLE 3 – April 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 4 – April 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 5 – April 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

                                                                                                                ###

The Railroad Commission of Texas issued a total of 715 original drilling permits in June 2024. The total includes 648 to drill new oil or gas wells, 5 to re-enter plugged wellbores and 55 for re-completions of existing wellbores.

The breakdown of well types for total original drilling permits in June 2024 is: 138 oil, 34 gas, 505 oil and gas, 26 injection, and 12 other permits.

In June 2024, Commission staff processed 610 oil, 225 gas and 198 injection completions for new drills, re-entries and re-completions.

Detailed data on drilling permits and well completions for the month can be found at this link:

https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/drilling-information/monthly-drilling-completion-and-plugging-summaries/

TABLE 1 – June 2024 TEXAS OIL AND GAS NEW DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT*

                                                                                   # # #

AUSTIN – This week marks another milestone in significant technological advancements at the RRC.

The agency has launched State Tracking and Reporting (LoneSTAR), a project that further improves efficiencies at the agency to save time and resources for oil and gas operators as well as RRC staff.

The first LoneSTAR release allows operators to make online filings for Form P-5, which are required to become, or renew as, an oil or gas operator or pipeline operator. P-5s are required in order to operate in Texas.

Other forms associated with the P-5 process can also be filed online through LoneSTAR: Form W-3C, for Certification of Surface Equipment Removal for an Inactive Well; and Form W-3X, the Application for an Extension of Deadline for Plugging an Inactive Well. 

LoneSTAR gives operators the ability to monitor the P-5 approval process online, fix any compliance issues related to filings in real-time, and view records online.

The project not only reduces the extensive paperwork that operators were once required to send, it also streamlines the day-to-day review process by RRC staff.  

“Overhauling the IT system at the Railroad Commission has been a top priority for me since I was first elected,” said RRC Chairman Christi Craddick. “The LoneSTAR launch marks a significant advancement to the way the agency interacts with operators and will improve the agency’s ability to prioritize health and safety for all Texans and the environment, while ensuring the state’s economic powerhouse can continue to thrive.”

“LoneSTAR modernizes the agency’s information technology to ensure producers spend less time filling out bureaucratic forms and more time drilling for the reliable energy our state, nation, and world need,” said RRC Commissioner Wayne Christian. “The Commission is widely recognized as a global leader in energy regulation, and as Commissioner I want to make sure it retains that reputation by minimizing the regulatory burden on producers and building a 21^st century agency that’s the envy of the world. I want to congratulate and thank all the RRC staff that worked so hard on this project.”

“Innovation spurred the shale revolution, but it was efficient operations that ultimately resulted in America becoming the leading energy producer in the world,” said RRC Commissioner Jim Wright. “The launch of LoneSTAR will not only serve to improve our effectiveness here at the Railroad Commission, but will also reduce the paperwork burden for our Texas energy producers, allowing for greater efficiency in their day-to-day operations.”   

Operators can view the announcement on using LoneSTAR at https://rrc.texas.gov/announcements/070124-rrc-launches-lonestar-for-forms-p-5-w-3c-and-w-3x-online-filing/.

Future releases of LoneSTAR will include other oil and gas and environmental permitting processes.

AUSTIN – Despite numerous concerns relayed by Texas, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has listed the Dunes Sagebrush Lizard (DSL) as an endangered species.

The listing’s impact on the most vital oil producing region in the nation – the Permian Basin – could be devastating, and RRC commissioners are taking steps to prevent that.

At their recent open meeting, commissioners voted unanimously to request the Texas Attorney General’s office challenge the ruling.

The DSL’s habitat is in the Permian Basin, which has more than 7,000 producing oil and gas fields in Texas. The endangered species listing will force operators to limit activities and could prohibit future development of energy operations.  

In comments submitted last year, the RRC pointed out the Service’s speculative conclusions that the DSL is at risk of extinction were based on outdated scientific studies that do not reflect modern oil and gas production technology. In addition, the RRC expressed concern the Service did not base its determination utilizing actual populations of the DSL, but rather relied on habitat modeling.

Also of great importance is the disregard of a major DSL conservation measure taken in Texas through a public-private partnership. Stakeholders including state agencies, oil and gas operators and landowners launched the Texas Conservation Plan in West Texas which significantly protects the lizards by establishing methods that prevent incidental destruction of DSL habitat during oil and gas operations.

“The Biden administration doubled down on their attack of the oil and gas industry with their latest Endangered Species Act action,” said RRC Chairman Christi Craddick. “By ignoring the existing conservation plans made by state and industry leaders to protect potential Dunes Sagebrush Lizard habitat, the administration makes it clear that this is nothing more than a political game. I am proud to push back against these unscientific and irresponsible regulations and appreciate the Office of Attorney General for supporting our efforts.”

“This doesn’t have a thing to do with ‘saving lizards’; it’s about shutting down U.S. oil and gas production to win political brownie points, which will only increase inflation and jeopardize billions of lives globally,” said RRC Commissioner Wayne Christian. “It doesn’t matter if it’s a lizard, a chicken, a whale, or a unicorn, radical environmentalists won’t be satisfied until we all get out energy from firewood and are living in a cave again. To them, this is about ending fossil fuels to ‘better humanity’; which is ironic given fossil fuels allow mankind to flourish by powering 80% of the globe’s energy, manufacturing 96% of consumer products, and helping feed more than half the planet. Right now, the world needs more energy and more Texas oil and gas, and all this does is drive up prices and make it harder on consumers.”

“Texas will certainly fight this most recent weaponization, which aims to shut down half the nation’s crude oil production and one-third of its natural gas production,” continued Christian. “Texans can rest assured that the RRC and other state agencies won’t lift a finger to help with this nonsense, because the Texas Energy Independence Act prohibits state agencies from facilitating any effort that would undermine Texas oil and gas production.”

“President Biden and his administration care more about reptiles and junglefowl than they do about the energy needs of our nation,” said Commissioner Jim Wright. “If they cared half as much about single mothers struggling with rising inflation and higher energy bills as they care about this lizard, a lawsuit wouldn’t be necessary.”

The referral to the Attorney General can be found here https://www.rrc.texas.gov/media/2fvjmku1/rrc-dsl-oag-referral.pdf

AUSTIN – Today, the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) in Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo empowered federal judges to use independent judgment in deciding whether a government agency has acted within its statutory authority. By overruling the 1984 Chevron USA v. Natural Resources Defense Council –also known as Chevron deference–the Court has ended the practice of federal courts deferring to the legal interpretations of government agencies. Following this historic ruling, Texas Railroad Commissioner Wayne Christian applauded the decision saying:

“For years, liberal unelected government bureaucrats in Washington, D.C. have run roughshod over Americans. That ends now. Thanks to three SCOTUS justices appointed by President Trump, the problem has been fixed. Federal judges now have the authority to rein in runaway bureaucrats, who treat the Constitution like toilet paper and hand out red tape like its Halloween candy,” said Commissioner Christian. “The importance of overturning Chevron deference cannot be overstated. It’s a profound shift in law. After the Dobbs decision that overturned Roe v. Wade, this is the most consequential decision out of the court in years.” 

Christian continued, “This is huge for Texas and other fossil fuel producing states, who must provide reliable energy to Americans and the world. Radical environmentalist administrations, like President Biden’s, hand over the ‘keys to the kingdom’ to federal agencies when Congress doesn’t give them the policies they want. I look forward to thoughtful judges dismantling many of the radical ‘green’ policies pushed by this administration that inhibit our domestic oil and gas production.” 

                                                    ###

A lifelong conservative businessman, Wayne Christian was elected as our 50th Texas Railroad Commissioner in November 2016. Prior to his time at the Commission, Christian served seven sessions in the Texas House of Representatives, accumulating a strong record of standing for free markets and against burdensome regulations. Christian is married to his wife, Lisa, and together they have three daughters, Liza, Lindsey and Lauren. You can learn more about Chairman Christian here.

RRC commissioners approved the agency’s Fiscal Year 2025 Oil and Gas Monitoring and Enforcement Plan which includes added information to provide the public further insight on the agency’s work to protect the environment and Texans.

The annual plans define the RRC’s strategic priorities for monitoring oil and gas activities and enforcing regulations across the state. They include the agency’s extensive field operations activities such as well inspections, orphaned well pluggings, and site remediations.  

New to this year’s plan is information related to technical permitting, and RRC monitoring and enforcement activities performed by the Oil and Gas Division’s Technical Permitting and Administrative Compliance Units. One example is the compliance team established by the division in 2023 to focus on post-permitting compliance at surface waste management facilities regulated by the Environmental Permits Section.

Also, for the first time, the RRC sought public feedback this year prior to developing the plan. Some of that input was used to develop priorities for monitoring and enforcement efforts in the plan, including providing more comprehensive flaring data, and evaluating difference methods to reduce orphaned wells older than 20 years.

“We continue to utilize our staff’s expertise and the agency’s technological advancements to serve Texans and their communities,” said Danny Sorrells, RRC Deputy Executive Director and Oil and Gas Director. “The new monitoring and enforcement plan provides more information on how we plan to utilize those key resources for regulation as the Texas oil and gas industry continues to be a vital element of the state and U.S. economy.”

The Fiscal Year 2025 Oil and Gas Monitoring and Enforcement Plan and a Spanish version of the plan can be found at https://rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/compliance-enforcement/enforcement-activities/.

                                                                                                   # # #

The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $2,626,403 in fines involving 606 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ Conference on Tuesday.  The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety.

Master default orders for operators that failed to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings can be found on the RRC Hearings Division web page.

Master Agreed Orders in which operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules can be found on the RRC General Council web page.  

Below is a table outlining the fines assessed.

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

                                                                                               ###

Following recent reports that the Biden Administration’s federal moratorium on new liquified natural gas (LNG) export plants is prohibiting Ukraine from purchasing American LNG, Railroad Commissioner Wayne Christian slammed the administration’s policy and called on the president to rescind the ban.

“This politically motivated ban is doing more than simply costing America economic activity— it’s jeopardizing our European allies and U.S. interests abroad,” said Commissioner Wayne Christian. “At a time when our allies need U.S. energy the most, President Biden is making it harder for them to access it. Ukraine’s deal for American LNG could be the leverage the West needs to gain an upper hand on Putin by ending Europe’s reliance on Russian energy and depriving Putin of his primary revenue source to fund his unjust war. American fossil fuels can once again be the ‘hope of the free world’ – but only if Biden will let it.”

You can read the letter here.

                                                                                                     ###

A lifelong conservative businessman, Wayne Christian was elected as our 50th Texas Railroad Commissioner in November 2016. Prior to his time at the Commission, Christian served seven sessions in the Texas House of Representatives, accumulating a strong record of standing for free markets and against burdensome regulations. Christian is married to his wife, Lisa, and together they have three daughters, Liza, Lindsey and Lauren. You can learn more about Chairman Christian here.

AUSTIN –– Statewide and county crude oil and natural gas production for March 2024 reported in the tables below came from 163,674 oil wells and 84,739 gas wells.

Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC. For full oil and gas production statistics, you can visit the links below.

Statewide totals: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production/

County rankings: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production-by-county-ranking/

TABLE 1 - March 2024 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION*

* These are preliminary figures based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received.

TABLE 2 - March 2023 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION

TABLE 3 – March 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 4 – March 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 5 – March 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

###

The Railroad Commission’s newest Government Relations Director started work at the agency this week. Nathan McDaniel brings a strong record of legislative and private industry experience to his role at the RRC.

Before joining the Commission, McDaniel served as Communications Director for a Texas State Senator and was Campaign Manager and District Director for a member of the United States House of Representatives. In these roles, McDaniel engaged community leaders and government officials on a variety of policy issues, including energy and environmental policies. In his most recent role, he consulted state and local public sector entities on strategic communications and marketing efforts.

McDaniel will take on a critical role overseeing the implementation of all state legislation and any federal legislation at the agency, and preparing the RRC for the next legislative session which begins in January 2025.

“I’m thrilled for the opportunity to work with the Commissioners and agency staff to ensure Texas continues to lead the way in energy production and environmental stewardship,” said McDaniel. “As a lifelong Texan, I know how critical these resources are not only to our great state, but to the entire country. Working together with my colleagues at the RRC and other state and industry leaders, I am confident Texas will continue to lead the world in innovative and responsible ways to produce the energy resources we need.”

McDaniel holds a bachelor’s degree from Texas State University and a Master’s in Public Leadership from the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas.

                                                                                 # # #

The Railroad Commission of Texas issued a total of 826 original drilling permits in May 2024. The total includes 759 to drill new oil or gas wells, 12 to re-enter plugged wellbores and 52 for re-completions of existing wellbores.

The breakdown of well types for total original drilling permits in May 2024 is: 180 oil, 41 gas, 573 oil and gas, 24 injection, and 8 other permits.

In May 2024, Commission staff processed 639 oil, 262 gas and 274 injection completions for new drills, re-entries and re-completions.

Detailed data on drilling permits and well completions for the month can be found at this link:

https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/drilling-information/monthly-drilling-completion-and-plugging-summaries/

TABLE 1 – May 2024 TEXAS OIL AND GAS NEW DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT*

                                                                          # # #

Today, the U.S. Department of Fish and Wildlife Services (USFWS) announced it would be listing the Dune Sagebrush Lizard as an endangered species under the Endanger Species Act (ESA). The Biden Administration made this designation, despite years of public and private collaborative efforts protecting the lizard, which have resulted in increased land conservation and rebounding populations.  Following the news, Texas Railroad Commissioner Wayne Christian said the follow:

“This doesn’t have a thing to do with ‘saving lizards’; it’s about shutting down U.S. oil and gas production to win political brownie points, which will only increase inflation and jeopardize billions of lives globally,” said Commissioner Wayne Christian. “It doesn’t matter if it’s a lizard, a chicken, a whale, or a unicorn, radical environmentalists won’t be satisfied until we all get out energy from firewood and are living in a cave again. To them, this is about ending fossil fuels to ‘better humanity’, which is ironic given they allow mankind to flourish by powering 80% of the globe’s energy, manufacturing 96% of consumer products, and helping to feed more than half the planet. Right now, the world needs more energy and more Texas oil and gas, and all this does is drive up prices and make it harder on consumers.”

“Texas will certainly fight this most recent ESA weaponization, which aims to shut down half the nation’s crude oil production and one-third of its natural gas production,” continued Christian. “Texans can rest assured that the RRC and other state agencies won’t lift a finger to help with this nonsense, because the Texas Energy Independence Act prohibits state agencies from facilitating any effort that would undermine Texas oil and gas production.”

Christian previously sent a letter to USFWS opposing the ESA designation.

                                                                                 ###

A lifelong conservative businessman, Wayne Christian was elected as our 50th Texas Railroad Commissioner in November 2016. Prior to his time at the Commission, Christian served seven sessions in the Texas House of Representatives, accumulating a strong record of standing for free markets and against burdensome regulations. Christian is married to his wife, Lisa, and together they have three daughters, Liza, Lindsey and Lauren. You can learn more about Chairman Christian here.

Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC. For full oil and gas production statistics, you can visit the links below.

Statewide totals: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production/

County rankings: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production-by-county-ranking/

TABLE 1 - February 2024 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION*

* These are preliminary figures based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received.

TABLE 2 - February 2023 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION

(more)

TABLE 3 – February 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 4 – February 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 5 – February 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

###

AUSTIN - The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $1, 279,179 in fines involving 441 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ Conference on Tuesday.  The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety.

Master default orders for operators that failed to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings can be found on the RRC Hearings Division web page.

Master Agreed Orders in which operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules can be found on the RRC General Council web page.  

Below is a table outlining the fines assessed.

                                                                                Fine Amounts

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

AUSTIN – Railroad Commission of Texas commissioners voted today to refer a new Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) greenhouse gas emissions rule to the Office of the Attorney General to file a lawsuit to challenge the rule in federal court.

The EPA rule adds regulations to existing and future electricity power plants fueled by coal and natural gas to decrease carbon dioxide emissions. However, the rule imposes strict but untested standards in what will likely result in unreasonable infrastructure costs, which could force coal plants to shut down and reduce the ability of natural gas-fired power plant to operate at full capacity.

That can have the detrimental effect of reducing electricity supply in Texas. The reliability of the electricity grid is of utmost importance in a state that continues to benefit from population and business growth, and a reliable grid is also needed to protect Texans during summer and winter weather fluctuations.

This is the second EPA rule that RRC commissioners have referred to the Attorney General to challenge this year. Two months ago, Texas challenged the EPA’s Methane Rule.

“In yet another baseless attack on the oil and gas industry, the Biden administration has proven their willingness to jeopardize the health and safety of Texans in the name of their ill-planned agenda,” said RRC Chairman Christi Craddick. “I appreciate the hard work of agency staff and look forward to the Attorney General’s action against this rule to protect Texas.”

“President Biden is hellbent on making American’s energy more expensive and less reliable just to virtue signal to his radical environmentalist friends and his globalist allies,” said Commissioner Wayne Christian. “These rules are an EPA ultimatum to fossil fuel-based power producers: eliminate CO2 or we’ll eliminate you. If Biden’s successful with his ‘Unreliable Power Plan,’ it will only mean more taxpayer-subsidized wind and solar energy, less dispatchable power for U.S. energy grids, and potential blackouts across the country. I hope Attorney General Paxton is successful in overturning this horrible rule.”

“This rule is but another example of the Biden Administration’s concerted effort to limit energy production at the expense of the American consumers.” said Commissioner Jim Wright. “This latest action by the EPA will not only make our electrical grid less reliable, but it will result in higher energy costs for American households. The only thing “green” about this rule will be the money flying out of middle-class pockets to pay their electricity bill if it isn’t overturned.”

The RRC and Texas Commission on Environmental Quality had filed comments opposing the rule when it was first drafted. Those comments can be found at this link https://www.rrc.texas.gov/media/cxxps5re/epa-comments-081423.pdf

Following reports that 27 states’ Attorney Generals filed lawsuit against the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) over their new rules for fossil fuel-based power plants dictating carbon dioxide emissions (CO2), Commissioner Wayne Christian applauded the news and said the following:

“President Biden is hellbent on making American’s energy more expensive and less reliable just to virtue signal to his radical environmentalist friends and his globalist allies,” said Commissioner Wayne Christian. “These rules are an EPA ultimatum to fossil fuel-based power producers: eliminate CO2 or we’ll eliminate you. If Biden’s successful with his ‘Unreliable Power Plan,’ it’ll only mean more taxpayer-subsidized wind and solar energy, less dispatchable power for US energy grids and potential blackouts across the country. Here in Texas, ERCOT already issued their first power warning based on temperatures and its only May. I applaud General Paxton and the other states on this legal challenge and pray they’re successful in overturning this horrible rule."

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A lifelong conservative businessman, Wayne Christian was elected as our 50th Texas Railroad Commissioner in November 2016. Prior to his time at the Commission, Christian served seven sessions in the Texas House of Representatives, accumulating a strong record of standing for free markets and against burdensome regulations. Christian is married to his wife, Lisa, and together they have three daughters, Liza, Lindsey and Lauren. You can learn more about Chairman Christian here.

The Railroad Commission of Texas issued a total of 814 original drilling permits in April 2024. The total includes 730 to drill new oil or gas wells, 13 to re-enter plugged wellbores and 64 for re-completions of existing wellbores.

The breakdown of well types for total original drilling permits in April 2024 is: 196 oil, 38 gas, 510 oil and gas, 46 injection, two service and 22 other permits.

In April 2024, Commission staff processed 966 oil, 231 gas and 354 injection completions for new drills, re-entries and re-completions.

Detailed data on drilling permits and well completions for the month can be found at this link:

https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/drilling-information/monthly-drilling-completion-and-plugging-summaries/

TABLE 1 – April 2024 TEXAS OIL AND GAS NEW DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT*

# # #

Today, Railroad Commissioner Wayne Christian testified before the House Select Committee on Protecting Texas Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) Exports.

Earlier this year, the Biden Administration announced it was pausing approval for pending and future applications to export LNG. Texas ships out about half of the nation’s LNG. In 2023, Texas increased its LNG exports to Europe substantially, reaching a record-high of 8.1 billion cubic feet per day in October 2023.

“Throughout his time in office, President Biden has unnecessarily put the United States and our allies at a severe geopolitical disadvantage just for the sake of virtue signaling that he is progressive on climate change,” said Commissioner Christian. “His pause on LNG exports is nothing more than election year politics at its worst because it will do nothing to reduce emissions, while making energy more expensive and less accessible for our allies in their time of need.” 

“Since taking office, the Biden administration has used every attack possible to destroy Texas oil and gas from EPA nonattainment threats to Endangered Species Act designations, adding red tape and creating new taxes, and flooding the market with billions of taxpayer dollars for more wind and solar,” continued Christian. “Texas LNG is the hope for the free world. At today’s hearing, Texas leaders sent a clear message that we will continue to fight this ‘keep-it-in-the-ground’ agenda, because providing life-saving reliable energy to the world is our responsibility.”

In January, Christian sent a letter to President Biden urging him not to move forward with the pause on new LNG projects. Then in February, he applauded House Republicans for passing H.R. 7176, which could overturn Biden’s actions on LNG.

 

Commissioner Christian testifying before the House Select Committee on Protecting Texas LNG Exports at Lamar State College in Port Arthur, TX.

A lifelong conservative businessman, Wayne Christian was elected as our 50th Texas Railroad Commissioner in November 2016. Prior to his time at the Commission, Christian served seven sessions in the Texas House of Representatives, accumulating a strong record of standing for free markets and against burdensome regulations. Christian is married to his wife, Lisa, and together they have three daughters, Liza, Lindsey and Lauren. You can learn more about Chairman Christian here.

The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $2,456,002 in fines involving 711 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ Conference on Wednesday.  The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety.

Master default orders for operators that failed to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings can be found on the RRC Hearings Division web page.

Master Agreed Orders in which operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules can be found on the RRC General Council web page.  

Below is a table outlining the fines assessed.

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

Following a Washington Times report about “How to Blow Up a Pipeline” being taught at universities in various states, Texas Railroad Commissioner Wayne Christian sent a letter to Senator Brandon Creighton and Representative John Kuempel, higher education committees chairs in the Texas Legislature, highlighting concerns of radical environmentalists’ materials being taught in universities and colleges. The Commissioner said the following about the issue:

“Safeguarding America’s energy infrastructure is paramount, and we cannot overlook the looming threat of eco-terrorism aimed at pipelines, refineries, and processing plants,” said Christian. “The teaching of ‘How to Blow Up a Pipeline’ in colleges is deeply troubling. We must prevent radical agendas from indoctrinating future generations with anti-American propaganda with our tax dollars. I want to encourage the legislature to look into whether any Texas universities or colleges are teaching ‘How to Blow Up a Pipeline’ or other related eco-terrorism-based materials.”

You can read the letter here.

AUSTIN – The state’s major energy industry reached new peaks last year with records set for both oil and gas production.

The Railroad Commission regulates the Texas oil and gas industry and tallies production reports submitted by operators.   

• Oil production hit a record 1.92 billion barrels in 2023, which was 51 million barrels more than the previous record.
• Operators produced 12.01 trillion cubic feet of natural gas in 2023, beating the previous record by more than 13%.

“These production records are beyond impressive and reflect how Texas continues to provide reliable domestic production for the nation,” said Wei Wang, RRC Executive Director. “As the state’s oil and gas regulator, the RRC is committed to our critical mission supporting Texas’ economic growth that benefits Texans. Production taxes collected from the oil and gas industry pay for our schools, highways and the state’s Rainy Day Fund. The Commission will continue its hard work to ensure the state remains at the forefront of the energy sector.”

Top 5 Oil Production Years (crude oil and condensate)

Top 5 Gas Production Years (gas well and casinghead gas)

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission of Texas issued a total of 709 original drilling permits in March 2024. The total includes 644 to drill new oil or gas wells, 22 to re-enter plugged wellbores and 39 for re-completions of existing wellbores.

The breakdown of well types for total original drilling permits in March 2024 is: 142 oil, 45 gas, 482 oil and gas, 32 injection, four service and four other permits.

In March 2024, Commission staff processed 786 oil, 202 gas and 443 injection completions for new drills, re-entries and re-completions.

Detailed data on drilling permits and well completions for the month can be found at this link:

https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/drilling-information/monthly-drilling-completion-and-plugging-summaries/

TABLE 1 – March 2024 TEXAS OIL AND GAS NEW DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT*

# # #

AUSTIN –– Statewide and county crude oil and natural gas production for January 2024 reported in the tables below came from 161,408 oil wells and 84,725 gas wells.

Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC. For full oil and gas production statistics, you can visit the links below.

Statewide totals: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production/

County rankings: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production-by-county-ranking/

TABLE 1 - January 2024 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION*

* These are preliminary figures based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received.

TABLE 2 - January 2023 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION

TABLE 3 – January 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 4 – January 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 5 – January 2024 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

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There was good news this week when the Texas Forest Service announced dangerous wildfires in the Panhandle were finally 100% contained thanks to the tireless efforts of state and local emergency crews.

During the precarious situation the Railroad Commission and operators worked to ensure community safety, and to also ensure there were no major disruptions in oil and gas production.

Many operators in the Panhandle take precautions ahead of time to protect oil and gas leases from fire threats. That diligence includes mowing grass and treating weeds to keep fuels for fires off leases and well pads. The aerial picture below is a great depiction of how that type of careful maintenance worked at a lease in Carson County, where grassland around a well site burned but the fires did not affect the well in the middle of the picture.

Gas Well in Carson County, Texas Panhandle

RRC safety officers also joined the state’s coordinated response to the wildfires, manning the State Operations Center to be in direct contact with other emergency responders while maintaining communications with regulated entities in the Panhandle including gas utilities.

After releasing a public statement about our work on Feb. 28, the RRC also sent a notice to operators during the wildfire threat advising them of precautions they could take. 

The dangerous wildfires were the most recent example of how the RRC, in any given emergency, will act early and work with operators to protect the public and the environment, and minimize potential disruptions to production.  

The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $3,141,077 in fines involving 775 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ Conference on Tuesday. The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety.

Ninety-one dockets involved $1,217,351.30 in penalties after operators failed to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings. Master Default Orders can be found on the RRC Hearings Division webpage.

Operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules and assessed $367,026 for any oil and gas, LP-Gas, critical infrastructure, or pipeline safety rule violations. Pipeline operators and excavators were assessed $1,556,700.00 for violations of the Commission’s Pipeline Damage Prevention rules. Master Agreed Orders can be found on the RRC General Counsel webpage.

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

Following news that the Texas State Board of Education (SBOE) and Chairman Aaron Kinsey would terminate an $8.5 billion contract with BlackRock, Texas Railroad Commissioner Wayne Christian applauded the SBOE’s decision, which protects Texas' Permanent School Fund and classrooms across the state, and said the following:

“Texas state leadership continues to land blows to BlackRock and woke financial corporations pushing a pro-ESG/anti-fossil fuel agenda!” said Commissioner Wayne Christian. “Our great state should NOT be doing business with a financial institution that wants to end oil and gas, brainwash kids to hate fossil fuels, and jeopardize our energy freedom. As the 9^th largest economy in the world with businesses regularly relocating headquarters to the Lone Star State, I’d suggest to BlackRock and other woke Wall Street firms to wake up and realize that fossil fuels aren’t the enemy that radical environmentalists have portrayed them to be. I want to give kudos to Chairman Kinsey, Tom Maynard, Julie Pickren and the other SBOE board members, who continue to defend the values and resources that make Texas, ‘Texas’.”

In November 2024, Commissioner Christian encouraged and celebrated SBOE’s rejection of anti-oil and gas school materials and promotion of oil and gas’ benefits. 

                                                                     ###

A lifelong conservative businessman, Wayne Christian was elected as our 50th Texas Railroad Commissioner in November 2016. Prior to his time at the Commission, Christian served seven sessions in the Texas House of Representatives, accumulating a strong record of standing for free markets and against burdensome regulations. Christian is married to his wife, Lisa, and together they have three daughters, Liza, Lindsey and Lauren. You can learn more about Chairman Christian here.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published the Methane Rule in the Federal Register today; and Texas is challenging this rule which is detrimental to an industry that is not only vital to the state’s economy but has also made great strides in emissions reduction.

RRC Commissioners voted in late January to refer the Methane Rule to the Office of the Attorney General to file a lawsuit against it; the Attorney General filed the lawsuit today.

The Commission has previously identified several concerns that were elaborated in comments it submitted in conjunction with the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality.

Texas leads the nation as the highest producer of both oil and natural gas, bringing thousands of jobs and economic prosperity to our great state. Reducing the production of domestic oil and gas will only force the U.S. to usher in foreign imports of these essential resources – imports from countries that do not produce a level of cleaner energy that Texas has been able to.

The RRC has taken many measures in the past few years providing incentives for emission reduction technology. The RRC established a blue-ribbon taskforce to address flaring in the state. The Texas Methane & Flaring Coalition has noted that the Permian Basin in Texas reduced methane emissions by more than 76 percent from 2011 to 2021, while production increased more than 345 percent during the same time frame. Texas has also seen a steady decrease in gas flared; the amount of gas flared is now less than 1% of the amount of gas produced - one of the lowest rates in the country.

Technology and innovation work, not arbitrary and ill-advised regulation, is how emissions reduction can be achieved.

“Texas is taking action against the federal government’s egregious overreach,” said RRC Chairman Christi Craddick. “The latest attack on oil and gas is nothing more than an attempt to shut down the industry that creates hundreds of thousands of jobs, funds 1/3 of our state’s economy, and produces clean and reliable energy for the world. I appreciate the Office of the Attorney General for filing suit against the EPA’s methane rule and look forward to protecting our state’s jobs and economy by providing reasonable and consistent regulation to the oil and gas industry.”

"The real victim of President Biden’s methane rule isn’t Big Oil, it will be the small oil and gas producers, who do most of the nation’s oil exploration and produce more than 83% of oil and 90% of natural gas,” said RRC Commissioner Wayne Christian. “This methane rule will target 50% of U.S. marginal wells and likely 70% of Texas' marginal wells. Keeping these wells in production not only reduces waste and the state’s plugging liability but also provides funding for our schools, protects the stability of our electricity grid, and puts food on the table for thousands of Texans.”

“I applaud the Office of Attorney General for moving forward against the Biden Administration’s harmful methane rule,” said RRC Commissioner Jim Wright. “This rule is yet another attempt to harm domestic oil and gas production by forcing small, independent operators, who are the backbone of the industry and the communities they represent, out of business.” 

The RRC will continue to place the safety of Texans and the protection of the environment as its highest priority, while leading the country in vital oil and gas production.

A copy of the lawsuit filed by the Office of the Attorney General can be found here.

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission of Texas issued a total of 722 original drilling permits in February 2024. The total includes 652 to drill new oil or gas wells, 15 to re-enter plugged wellbores and 52 for re-completions of existing wellbores.

The breakdown of well types for total original drilling permits in February 2024 is: 154 oil, 42 gas, 463 oil and gas, 45 injection, and 18 other permits.

In February 2024, Commission staff processed 667 oil, 151 gas and 317 injection completions for new drills, re-entries and re-completions.

Detailed data on drilling permits and well completions for the month can be found at this link:

https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/drilling-information/monthly-drilling-completion-and-plugging-summaries/

TABLE 1 – February 2024 TEXAS OIL AND GAS NEW DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT*

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AUSTIN –– Statewide and county crude oil and natural gas production for December 2023 reported in the tables below came from 162,725 oil wells and 86,164 gas wells.

Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC. For full oil and gas production statistics, you can visit the links below.

Statewide totals: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production/

County rankings: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production-by-county-ranking/

TABLE 1 - December 2023 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION*

* These are preliminary figures based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received.

TABLE 2 - December 2022 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION

TABLE 3 – December 2023 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 4 – December 2023 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 5 – December 2023 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

                                                                                               ###

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission has activated its team for the State Operations Center (SOC) during the ongoing wildfires in the Texas Panhandle.

As is the case during any emergency, the RRC is ready to respond quickly to ensure the safety of communities and the environment. RRC staff is in direct contact with other emergency responders at the SOC and will continue to do so until the wildfire threats abate.

The Railroad Commission is also maintaining communications with regulated entities in the Panhandle including gas utilities. And the agency is in contact with district office staff who may be impacted in the region.

RRC Asst. Executive Director Randall Collins and Safety Officer Chance Karshens at the SOC

In January 2024, the Biden Administration announced a pause on permits for new liquefied natural gas (LNG) export projects. In response to this pause, it was announced that the U.S. House of Representatives would be voting on H.R. 7176, the Unlocking Domestic LNG Potential Act (Rep. Pflueger, TX-11), which would repeal the Biden Administration’s ban on new LNG export projects. Following the news, Texas Railroad Commission Wayne Christian said the following:

“U.S. LNG is life-saving energy to our allies, and I don’t know about the president, but I’d much rather have the world buying American natural gas over foreign or hostile nations,” said Commissioner Christian. “President Joe Biden’s politically motivated pause on new LNG export projects hurts consumers, Texans’ jobs, slows the U.S. economy, makes energy more expensive, and jeopardizes the lives our foreign allies.”

“H.R. 7176 will put pressure on the Biden Administration to remove their political and unnecessary blockade on LNG export projects which are vital to Texas, America, and the world. It’s a great bill, and I applaud Rep. Pfluger and House Republicans for fighting back,” continued Christian. “If America cuts off LNG shipments, it will allow China, Iran, and Russia’s influence to grow. Our nation should be THE global energy leader – not through unreliable and heavily subsidized “green” energy – but through the responsible production and export of oil and gas.”

To read the letter click here.

The Railroad Commission of Texas issued a total of 799 original drilling permits in January 2024. The total includes 748 to drill new oil or gas wells, 10 to re-enter plugged wellbores and 39 for re-completions of existing wellbores.

The breakdown of well types for total original drilling permits in January 2024 is: 135 oil, 36 gas, 558 oil and gas, 49 injection, and 21 other permits.

In January 2024, Commission staff processed 770 oil, 216 gas and 319 injection completions for new drills, re-entries and re-completions.

Detailed data on drilling permits and well completions for the month can be found at this link:

https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/drilling-information/monthly-drilling-completion-and-plugging-summaries/

TABLE 1 – January 2024  TEXAS OIL AND GAS NEW DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT*

# # #

AUSTIN – The Railroad Commission of Texas assessed $1,956,012 in fines involving 616 enforcement dockets against operators and businesses at the Commissioners’ Conference on Tuesday. The Commission has primary oversight and enforcement of the state’s oil and gas industry and intrastate pipeline safety.

Twenty-four dockets involved $406,262 in penalties after operators failed to appear at Commission enforcement proceedings. Master Default Orders can be found on the RRC Hearings Division webpage.

Operators were ordered to come into compliance with Commission rules and assessed $155,900 for oil and gas, LP-Gas, critical infrastructure, or pipeline safety rule violations. Pipeline operators and excavators were assessed $1,393,850 for violations of the Commission’s Pipeline Damage Prevention rules. Master Agreed Orders can be found on the RRC General Counsel webpage.

In the absence of timely motions for rehearing, decisions are final as stated in these final orders.

AUSTIN - The Railroad Commission’s well plugging program will utilize its expertise to plug hard to reach orphaned wells located along the Coastal Bend of Texas in Baffin Bay, Humble Channel and Pita Island.

The RRC has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the General Land Office (GLO) in which GLO will provide $3 million to help plug 10 wells. The RRC will utilize marsh buggies and any other specialized equipment needed to reach and plug the wells. 

Coastal Bend area where wells are located

This latest project is yet another example of how the RRC uses its award-winning plugging program to assist other agencies. In the past several years, the Commission has plugged a well for the GLO in the Bolivar Peninsula; helped the National Park Service by removing hazardous casing from previously plugged wells at the Big Thicket National Preserved in East Texas; and plugged wells at another popular national park, Padre Island National Seashore, in 2021.

“This year marks the 40-year anniversary of the RRC's nationally recognized State Managed Plugging Program," said RRC Executive Director Wei Wang. “We have plugged more than 45,000 wells during that time, and our extensive experience gives us the expertise that other agencies can rely on. The RRC is always willing to help in the important mission of protecting communities and the environment around our great state."

The RRC also exceeds high performance standards for well plugging set by the Texas Legislature. The agency has plugged more wells than the annual legislative goals for seven straight years.

AUSTIN- This week marked the end of an extensive project in the Railroad Commission’s efforts to protect environmental and public safety.

On Monday, the RRC completed plugging a well that had an uncontrolled water flow in Crane County that began in December.

Inspectors in West Texas were dispatched within hours of the water flow being reported, and construction almost immediately began on lined pits and berms to contain the flow and protect any threat to freshwater.

The water flow stopped on January 21. The well is now cased and cemented and freshwater zones are protected.

The agency has done extensive research, and the well is not on any RRC records, indicating no evidence that this is an oil and gas well. Water sampling further suggests this may not have been an oil and gas well.

The water sample had high salt content, which would not be surprising given the fact that the site is over the Salado Formation which is a salt formation.  

Although there is no evidence to suggest that this is an orphan oil and gas well, the RRC acted quickly to remediate the water flow in Crane County because the RRC will make every effort possible to protect freshwater in Texas.

We are continuing to investigate the historical geological features in the area and working with entities such as the University of Texas Bureau of Economic Geology for potential assistance in understanding historical geology.

Statewide and county crude oil and natural gas production for November 2023 reported in the tables below came from 162,789 oil wells and 86,491 gas wells.

Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC. For full oil and gas production statistics, you can visit the links below.

Statewide totals: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production/

County rankings: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production-by-county-ranking/

TABLE 1 - November 2023 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION*

* These are preliminary figures based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received.

TABLE 2 - November 2022 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION

TABLE 3 – November 2023 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 4 – November 2023 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 5 – November 2023 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

Following news that the Biden Administration would effectively pause new liquefied natural gas (LNG) plants, Texas Railroad Commissioner Wayne Christian said the following: 

“Texas natural gas is saving the free world, and President Biden wants to end it. His administration’s pause on new liquified natural gas export (LNG) plants may recklessly endanger European lives, many of whom are facing a harsh winter with less access to life-saving energy,” said Commissioner Christian. “Europe came to rely on unreliable wind/solar energy too much. Since Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, the destruction of the Nord stream pipeline, and Europe’s justified ban on Russian gas, many European nations scrambled to provide reliable energy to save their citizens through importing LNG, burning wood, and reclassifying natural gas as a “green” energy source. But American LNG stepped up for our allies in their hour of need, with 20% of our LNG exports going to Europe. But this new pause could put those European citizens right back winter’s deadly, cold grip this season.”

Christian continued, “This move by the Biden Administration is just the latest in a long line of actions to dismantle American oil and gas production and does NOT eliminate emissions. It simply exports them to dirtier and more hostile producers overseas. President Biden will always choose his climate catastrophist friends over increasing fossil fuel production to lower energy costs—for Americans and our allies.

Anti-energy policies by the Biden Administration and the woke left will decrease human flourishing and lead to death. Our energy strategy should be benefiting mankind by increasing production of our domestic fossil fuels and exporting that reliable energy.”

Background:

Previously, Commissioner Christan sent a letter to President Biden urging him not to move forward with the pause on new LNG project.

A lifelong conservative businessman, Wayne Christian was elected as our 50th Texas Railroad Commissioner in November 2016. Prior to his time at the Commission, Christian served seven sessions in the Texas House of Representatives, accumulating a strong record of standing for free markets and against burdensome regulations. Christian is married to his wife, Lisa, and together they have three daughters, Liza, Lindsey and Lauren. You can learn more about Chairman Christian here.

Austin – Recent media reports revealed that the Biden Administration is considering a pause on permits for new liquefied natural gas (LNG) export projects. Following the news, Texas Railroad Commissioner Wayne Christian sent a letter to President Joe Biden and Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm criticizing the potential action and encouraging them to grow LNG exports to support America’s allies abroad.  

“America becoming energy dominant again – like in 2019 – is the key to restoring global order, and that starts with a strong LNG export industry,” said Commissioner Christian. “I don’t know about President Biden, but I’d much rather have the world buy America’s clean natural gas over gas anywhere else. LNG can be a beacon of hope, where many countries no longer produce their own fossil fuels due to the Net Zero agenda. Our energy strategy should be to increase production of our domestic fossil fuels and export that reliable energy to our allies across the globe.”

Read the letter here.

The RRC has taken major steps to prepare for sub-freezing temperatures that are projected to grip Texas beginning this weekend. Residents and operators are encouraged to keep an eye on weather forecasts and safety alerts during this time.

Beginning in early December, Critical Infrastructure Division inspectors spread across the state to ensure natural gas facilities on the state’s electricity supply chain map are weatherized and in compliance with RRC’s weatherization rules. All of what are known as Tier One facilities have already been inspected, in addition to ongoing inspections of other facilities on the map. Tier One facilities are gas processing plants, underground gas storage facilities, pipelines that directly connect to electricity generation plants, and oil and gas leases that produce more than 5 million cubic feet of gas per day. No violations have been identified so far; weatherization inspections will continue through the beginning of the spring.

Another important layer in preparing for harsh weather is the amount of natural gas in underground storage in Texas. This is gas that can be utilized in case it’s needed during an emergency. At the end of November, which was the typical end of the injection season for winter, there was approximately 488.8 billion cubic feet of gas in storge, a five percent increase compared to the end of November 2022 and the highest amount in six years. The infrastructure for gas storage and withdrawal capacity has grown within a year which is a boon to protecting residents in a growing state.

The Commission will continue its round-the-clock work to stay on top of weather conditions including coordination with other state agencies for any necessary emergency response. The RRC will remain in constant communications with operators and other agencies, as has been done during past weather emergencies, to ensure an ample gas supply as we head into the long holiday weekend in which gas markets will be closed.

The RRC issued a Notice to Operators on incoming inclement weather which can be viewed here https://www.rrc.texas.gov/media/roxm1a2u/2024_nto_winter-weather-forecast_1-11-2024.pdf.

The Railroad Commission has issued a framework for pilot programs that could greatly enhance environmental protection in Texas with the potential to recycle produced water safely and economically.

Produced water is a byproduct of what comes to the surface during oil and gas production, and the produced water recycling framework will provide a regulatory pathway for operators to assess the effectiveness and the suitability of applying treated produced water for beneficial purposes. 

Operators will apply for authorization to conduct pilot studies, and RRC will issue a permit or letter of authorization if the application meets requirements. The operators would compile data of how treated produced water can be reused in certain activities that are safe and protective of human health and the environment.

Ultimately, the potential exists to reduce the amount of produced water that gets injected back into the ground, which can help reduce incidents of seismicity, as well as developing a potential water source for above ground use. 

“This is another example of how we stay at the forefront of our critical mission of protecting public safety and the environment while we regulate an industry that is crucial to the state’s economy,” said Wei Wang, RRC Executive Director. “This framework opens up the potential to use treated produced water in ways that have never been seen before in Texas, which is a win-win for conserving water resources, and protecting the environment and Texans.”  

The Commission will focus attention on the effectiveness of treatment technologies and examine proper methods for gathering, storing, treating, testing, and documenting how treated water quality evolves and is controlled in each pilot facility. The oil and gas industry has been using recycled produced water in oil and gas activities. The pilot studies will explore opportunities in additional beneficial uses. Treated fluid will not be allowed to be discharged to surface water during the pilot studies.  

The produced water recycling framework is a starting point and will evolve over time in collaboration with the work of others such as the academic community, consortia, industry, and community leaders.

The information obtained by these pilot studies can be used to develop more focused regulation on produced water recycling and help guide future development.

A copy of the framework can be found on the RRC website at https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/applications-and-permits/environmental-permit-types/pilot-projects/.

The Railroad Commission of Texas issued a total of 669 original drilling permits in December 2023. The total includes 621 to drill new oil or gas wells, 14 to re-enter plugged wellbores and 33 for re-completions of existing wellbores.

The breakdown of well types for total original drilling permits in December2023 is:  120 oil, 38 gas, 475 oil and gas, 25 injection, two service, and nine other permits.

In December 2023, Commission staff processed 506 oil, 129 gas and 77 injection completions for new drills, re-entries and re-completions.

Detailed data on drilling permits and well completions for the month can be found at this link:

https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/drilling-information/monthly-drilling-completion-and-plugging-summaries/

TABLE 1 – December 2023 TEXAS OIL AND GAS NEW DRILLING PERMITS AND COMPLETIONS BY RAILROAD COMMISSION OF TEXAS DISTRICT*

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Statewide and county crude oil and natural gas production for October 2023 reported in the tables below came from 162,578 oil wells and 86,662 gas wells.

Crude oil production reported by the RRC is limited to oil produced from oil leases and does not include condensate, which is reported separately by the RRC. For full oil and gas production statistics, you can visit the links below.

Statewide totals: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production/

County rankings: https://www.rrc.texas.gov/oil-and-gas/research-and-statistics/production-data/texas-monthly-oil-gas-production-by-county-ranking/

TABLE 1 - October 2023 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION*

* These are preliminary figures based on production volumes reported by operators and will be updated as late and corrected production reports are received.

TABLE 2 - October 2022 STATEWIDE PRODUCTION

TABLE 3 – October 2023 TEXAS TOP TEN CRUDE OIL PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 4 – October 2023 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL GAS (GAS WELL GAS & CASINGHEAD) PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

TABLE 5 – October 2023 TEXAS TOP TEN TOTAL CONDENSATE PRODUCING COUNTIES RANKED BY PRELIMINARY PRODUCTION

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