Bill > S818

This bill amends the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to establish a comprehensive abandoned wells research, development, and demonstration program managed by the Secretary of Energy. The program aims to improve methods for locating, understanding, and addressing abandoned oil and gas wells, which are defined as wells that are no longer in use, have not been properly sealed, and have no anticipated future use. The research will focus on developing advanced technologies for identifying abandoned wells (such as remote sensors, LiDAR, and magnetic surveys), understanding methane emissions from these wells, improving plugging and remediation techniques, and assessing groundwater contamination risks. The program will involve collaboration with higher education institutions, national laboratories, and the private sector. The bill authorizes funding ranging from $30 million in fiscal year 2026 to $35 million in fiscal year 2030, with specific goals of exploring innovative plugging methods, using low-carbon materials, and potentially repurposing abandoned wells for alternative uses like geothermal energy or carbon capture and storage.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/818/all-info