Notice to Oil & Gas and Pipeline Operators: Amendments Adopted to Rule on Critical Designation of Natural Gas Infrastructure

The Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) has amended its rule that implements a process for designating certain natural gas entities as critical during an energy emergency as specified in Senate Bill 3 and House Bill 3648 passed by the 87^th Legislature (Regular Session). The amended rule is effective on November 21, 2022.

On November 1, 2022, the RRC Commissioners adopted amendments to 16 Texas Administrative Code (TAC) §3.65, relating to Critical Designation of Natural Gas Infrastructure. The amendments modify the list of natural gas facilities that are critical gas suppliers and critical customers. Gas wells producing an average of 250 Mcf/day or less and oil leases producing an average of 500 Mcf/day or less are excluded from the list of critical facilities. Certain enhanced oil recovery (EOR) projects are also excluded. Facilities that are not designated critical in 16 TAC §3.65 are not subject to requirements in 16 TAC §3.66, the RRC’s weatherization rule.

Additionally, the amendments clarify which facilities may request an exception to critical designation and what constitutes a reasonable basis and justification for the request such that the request may be granted.

To view the full notice, visit the RRC website at https://www.rrc.texas.gov/media/umwdldwl/nto-critical-designation-rule-amendments_11-01-2022.pdf.