PA DEP to require fracking companies to disclose chemicals used in drilling operations

On Friday, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced it was implementing a new policy that would require fracking companies to publicly disclose the chemicals used in their drilling and hydraulic fracturing processes before the chemicals are used on-site.

The step was part of Gov. Josh Shapiro’s administration’s effort to address climate change and protect residents’ rights to clean air and water while maintaining the state’s position as a national energy leader. The requirement was a key recommendation of the 43rd Statewide Grand Jury Report, which Shapiro oversaw as the state’s attorney general.

“As Attorney General and now as Governor, I have listened to Pennsylvanians concerned about their health and safety – and I am delivering on the promise I made to them to secure these protections,” Shapiro said. “My Administration is setting a new standard for Pennsylvania natural gas to be produced in a responsible, sustainable way and showing how we can bring people together to get things done. We’re going to follow through on our commitment to ensure the health and safety of our communities while maintaining Pennsylvania’s proud energy legacy and our Commonwealth’s critical role in the nation’s energy economy.” 

Operators will be required to detail which chemicals are used in their site-specific Preparedness, Prevention and Contingency (PPC) plans. PPC plans had been required to be submitted to DEP only upon request. The new guidelines will require the chemical information to be disclosed to DEP prior to permitting for new unconventional wells. DEP will then post the PPC documents online at the PA Oil and Gas Mapping website.