ORLA, Texas—Texas faces a critical shortage of underground disposal space for nearly 1 billion gallons of wastewater produced daily by the oil and gas industry in the Permian Basin. Elected officials and industry leaders warn that this could hinder oil production.
Produced water, the byproduct of oil extraction, is typically injected into disposal wells underground. However, increased underground pressure from these injections has been linked to earthquakes and blowouts. The industry is now exploring alternatives to treat and reuse this wastewater.
At a recent legislative hearing and conference, experts highlighted the urgency of finding new disposal methods to prevent constraints on oil production. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) is working on permits to allow treated water discharge into rivers starting in 2024, but none have been issued yet. TCEQ proposed a rule for applying treated water on land for purposes such as irrigation.
The Railroad Commission, responsible for oil and gas regulation, emphasized the need for alternatives to disposal wells. Commissioner Jim Wright noted that delays in permitting could restrict development in the Permian Basin.
Despite political pressure, TCEQ awaits further research before issuing permits. Pilot projects and studies are ongoing, with questions about safety and treatment technologies persisting.
In public testimony, TCEQ’s lack of response to questions about their rulemaking process was noted. Spokesperson Victoria Cann stated that permits will ensure compliance with Texas Surface Water Quality Standards to protect drinking water and aquatic life.
Senate Updates in Austin
Produced water is a complex waste stream due to its chemical composition. It contains salts, bromide, arsenic, and radioactive isotopes, among other hazardous compounds. The TCEQ obtained EPA approval in 2021 to permit treated water discharges.
The Texas Produced Water Consortium released a report with data from five pilot projects, showcasing ongoing research efforts.
At a Texas Senate hearing, Michael Lozano of the Permian Basin Petroleum Association warned of limited disposal options. State Sen. Kevin Sparks stressed the importance of timely permit issuance by the TCEQ to address treated water discharge.
Julie Range from Commission Shift cautioned against expedited permits without public access to water quality standards for hazardous compounds in produced water.
A Desert Ice Maker
In Orla, Texas Pacific Water Resources launched a facility to treat 10,000 barrels (420,000 gallons) of produced water daily. The plant uses freeze desalination technology, separating salts from water to create a reusable brine.
Located in a seismic response area, the facility seeks to address earthquake risks associated with underground injection. The treated water can be used on-site for internal processes, with ongoing approval for increased volumes.
Texas Pacific Water Resources awaits a TCEQ permit to discharge treated water into Salt Creek. Similar applications have been submitted by other companies.
The energy-intensive desalination process requires significant electricity, highlighting the cost challenge compared to underground injection.
Ongoing Research
The Produced Water Society’s conference in Midland discussed the status of TCEQ permits. Brady Murphy of TETRA Technologies emphasized the need for clarity on environmental standards. TCEQ Commissioner Catarina Gonzales provided no specific updates on permit applications.
Robert Crain from Texas Pacific Water Resources stressed the importance of a defensible permit framework. Ongoing monitoring and testing requirements remain undefined, posing potential challenges for companies.
Research continues, with calls for more scientific studies to understand the long-term effects of using treated produced water. Recent studies have highlighted the need for multi-year investigations and comprehensive water quality assessments.
The Sierra Club and other organizations advocate for thorough research before finalizing regulations. TCEQ received significant public feedback opposing proposed rules for land application of treated water.
Original Story at insideclimatenews.org