Texas Voluntary Marginal Conventional Well Plugging Program (TxMCW)
Financial incentives for plugging low-producing conventional oil and gas wells.
Owners and operators of marginal conventional wells (those producing a low amount of oil or gas) in Texas may receive financial assistance to plug and abandon select wells.
Wells that Qualify
A qualifying well must be a marginal conventional well (MCW), which is defined as an onshore conventional well producing less than or equal to one of the following over a calendar year:
- 15 barrels of oil equivalent per day (BOED); or
- 90 thousand cubic feet (Mcf) gas per day.
Note: 1 BOE = 6 Mcf.
Well Prioritization Plan
TCEQ’s Well Prioritization Plan describes how TxMCW will select wells for plugging. Prioritization criteria consider potential emissions at each MCW, proximity to disadvantaged communities, potential human health and environmental impacts, and whether a participating MCW is located on tribal land.
Methane Measurement Plan
TCEQ's Methane Measurement Plan describes how the detection and measurement of methane emissions before and after well plugging activities will be conducted at participating MCWs. Methane detection is required for all MCWs selected for funding under the program. This plan is based on DOE's Methane Measurement Guidelines for MCWs .
Program Status
TxMCW is currently under development. Additional program guidance and opportunities will become available beginning January 2025.
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Background
TCEQ was awarded $134.1 million under the Inflation Reduction Act’s Methane Emissions Reduction Program (MERP). With this funding, TCEQ has developed TxMCW.
Additional Information
Contact Us
Email: TxMCW@tceq.texas.gov
Phone: 512-239-4950