On December 1, 2023, the Secretary of Energy published Resolution 970/2023 (the “Resolution”) that establishes the “National Program for the Measurement and Reduction of Fugitive Emissions Derived from Hydrocarbon Exploitation and Production Activities” (the “Program”).
The Program aims to:
- Promote actions for detecting, measuring, quantifying and validating fugitive emissions in hydrocarbon exploration and production activities;
- Organize and systematize the information obtained from the measurements made; and
- Encourage the implementation of plans for mitigation and reduction of fugitive emissions derived from hydrocarbon activities.
The obligated parties -individuals and/or legal entities- must submit to the Undersecretary of Hydrocarbons of the Nation:
- An Annual Fugitive Emissions Measurement Plan; and
- A five (5) year Comprehensive Plan referred to the reduction of fugitive emissions, in order to implement specific measures that prioritize the efficiency and use of the gas resource.
The information arising from the above-mentioned plans will be published on the website of the Secretary of Energy.
The regulated entities that have new facilities shall tend to the incorporation of good practices and management actions, appropriate for minimizing fugitive emissions produced from the planning and design stage of such facilities.
It is important to mention that the deadlines for compliance as well as any other aspect related to the implementation of the Resolution shall be subject to the regulation to be issued accordingly.
For additional information, please contact Nicolás Eliaschev, Pablo Arrascaeta, Milagros Piñeiro, Rocío Valdez and/or Victoria Barrueco.