Alaska oil and gas regulator takes first step toward carbon storage program

The Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission has begun planning for the state’s new carbon sequestration program.

The program, approved by state lawmakers and Gov. Mike Dunleavy this year, will eventually see the state license pipelines and injection wells that allow companies to store carbon dioxide deep underground.

Storage programs, already in use by other states, are seen as a way to avert the environmental consequences of fossil fuel use. They’ve exploded in popularity since Congress and President Joe Biden approved significant tax incentives.

In a public notice published Tuesday, the AOGCC said it is taking public comments on possible regulations for the state program.

As part of the program, the state will assume regulatory authority over carbon injection wells, taking it from the Environmental Protection Agency.

Under federal law, the state must implement drinking-water protections that are no weaker than those currently used by the EPA.

No specific rules have yet been published, and the agency is collecting the public’s thoughts on what should be included. A public hearing has been scheduled for 10 a.m. on Nov. 7.

Written comments may also be submitted to the AOGCC at 333 West 7th Ave., Anchorage, AK 99501 or aogcc.ccus@alaska.gov.