Resolution 143/98 - Modification of Resolution No. 236/96, Approve the Rules and Regulations of Gas Venting

The Argentinian Energy Secretary enacted this resolution aiming to control gas venting in hydrocarbons production and during exploration well testing. Consequently, through resolution No 143 the Energy Secretary establishes venting limits for wells. Specifically, Annex I allows venting up to 25 m3 of gas / m3 of liquid hydrocarbons as of January 1, 1998, and 1 m3 / m3 as of January 1, 2000. In addition, the resolution requires action to plug or “shut-in” any wells found to be venting above 1500 m3 / m3. However, short-term exceptions are permitted in justify cases (Sec. 4, 5.).

Further, Annex I mandates that, if it is technically possible, the gas allowed to vent must be burned through appropriate procedures, minimising the harmful gas emissions.

Finally, the Secretary of Energy is authorised to conduct compliance inspections and enforce these provisions and in case of detected a violation the license can be cancelled.

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