A review of methane leakage from abandoned oil and gas wells: A case study in Lubbock, Texas, within the Permian Basin

• Published in: Energy Geoscience 2024-07, Vol.5 (3), p.100288, Article 100288
• Main Authors: Opara, Stanley U., Okere, Chinedu J.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Abandoned oil and gas (AOG) well; Climate change mitigation; Methane emission control; Net zero carbon emissions; Permian Basin
• ISSN: 2666-7592; 2666-7592
• DOI: 10.1016/j.engeos.2024.100288

In the pursuit of global net zero carbon emissions and climate change mitigation, ongoing research into sustainable energy sources and emission control is paramount. This review examines methane leakage from abandoned oil and gas (AOG) wells, focusing particularly on Lubbock, a geographic area situated within the larger region known as the Permian Basin in West Texas, United States. The objective is to assess the extent and environmental implications of methane leakage from these wells. The analysis integrates pertinent literature, governmental and industry data, and prior Lubbock reports. Factors affecting methane leakage, including well integrity, geological characteristics, and human activities, are explored. Our research estimates 1781 drilled wells in Lubbock, forming a foundation for targeted assessments and monitoring due to historical drilling trends. The hierarchy of well statuses in Lubbock highlights the prevalence of “active oil wells,” trailed by “plugged and abandoned oil wells” and “inactive oil wells.” Methane leakage potential aligns with these well types, underscoring the importance of strategic monitoring and mitigation. The analysis notes a zenith in “drilled and completed” wells during 1980–1990. While our study's case analysis and literature review reiterate the critical significance of assessing and mitigating methane emissions from AOG wells, it's important to clarify that the research does not directly provide methane leakage data. Instead, it contextualizes the issue's magnitude and emphasizes the well type and status analysis's role in targeted mitigation efforts. In summary, our research deepens our understanding of methane leakage, aiding informed decision-making and policy formulation for environmental preservation. By clarifying well type implications and historical drilling patterns, we aim to contribute to effective strategies in mitigating methane emissions from AOG wells. [Display omitted] •Methane leakage pathways in the wellbore reviewed.•Plugged and abandoned wells contribute to methane emissions.•Unplugged wells show high emission levels than plugged wells.•Methane emission mitigation works for both plugged and unplugged wells.