RRC Attends Important Carbon Management Dialogue Event in Houston

Carbon management has become a topic at the forefront of the energy and environmental sectors as methods to remove carbon dioxide emissions from the atmosphere are explored.

The RRC plays a key role in the safety regulations of carbon management and storage and travels the state to help communities understand our important role.

RRC staff attended the Carbon Management Dialogue event in Houston this month that offered a wide array of presentations, panel discussions and workshops designed to inform and engage the public, academic community, industry professionals, and local governments about carbon management in Texas.

The event was geared towards the communities around the Houston and Gulf Coast area to offer opportunities to learn about new carbon management technologies. Sessions also provided information on how the public can become involved in project development, along with clarification on regulatory processes for oversight of carbon management projects.

“The RRC attended this event to educate and listen,” said Michelle Banks, RRC Office of Public Engagement Director. “We informed attendees about the RRC’s request for primacy of Class VI Wells and the steps we have taken to prepare for adding this permit regulation to our jurisdiction. Plus, we listened to the community and their advocates to learn their level of understanding, questions and concerns about Class VI Wells and CO2 pipelines to enhance our outreach once we receive primacy.”

RRC Pipeline Permitting Specialists participated in a panel discussion on pipeline safety, permitting and regulations to help answer community questions. Leslie Savage, Director of Oil and Gas Program Support/ Chief Geologist represented the Commission in a panel discussion on Laws and Regulation and breakout sessions on topics such as the future of carbon management.

The event was hosted by Climate Now, in coordination with the City of Houston and Rice University.