Q860. Can EPA clarify which liquid throughput quantities in 40 CFR 98.236(aa) are required to be measured via flow meters?

A860. Beginning on January 1, 2025, 40 CFR 98.236(aa) requires that the information specified in paragraphs (aa)(1) through (11) must be determined using a flow meter that meets the requirements of §98.234(b) for quantities that are sent to sale or through the facility for each applicable industry segment. All other quantities required by (aa)(1) through (11) are required to be determined using best available data for each applicable industry segment.

Regarding the question on liquid throughput quantities, there are four liquid throughput quantities in 40 CFR 98.236(aa) that are specified as sent to sale or through the facility and thus must be measured:

• 40 CFR 98.236(aa)(1)(i)(C): For onshore petroleum and natural gas production, the quantity of crude oil and condensate produced from producing wells that is sent to sale in the calendar year, in barrels.
• 40 CFR 98.236(aa)(1)(iii)(D): For each well permanently shut-in and plugged during the calendar year in an onshore petroleum and natural gas production facility, the quantity of crude oil and condensate produced that is sent to sale in the calendar year.
• 40 CFR 98.236(aa)(2)(ii): For offshore production, the quantity of crude oil and condensate produced from producing wells that is sent to sale in the calendar year, in barrels.
• 40 CFR 98.236(aa)(2)(iv) For each well permanently shut-in and plugged during the calendar year in an offshore production facility, the quantity of crude oil and condensate produced that is sent to sale in the calendar year, in barrels.

The information required in 40 CFR 98.236(aa)(3) through (11) does not specify that the reporter provide liquid throughput quantities “sent to sale” or “through the facility.” Therefore, any of these that are liquid throughput quantities are considered “other quantities” and may be determined using best available data.