New Mexico seeks record $47.8 million fine for excessive air pollution from natural gas processor

SANTA FE, New Mexico — New Mexico environmental regulators levied a $47.8 million fine Friday over allegations of excessive air pollution at a natural gas processing facility located in a prolific oil-producing region near the state border from Texas.

The state Department of the Environment has issued sanctions, including a cease-and-desist order, against Houston-based Targa Resources at its processing plant near Jal, New Mexico, alleging permit violations and Excessive emissions of gases known to cause respiratory problems or contribute to climate change, including ozone. producing pollutants.

Representatives for Targa could not immediately be reached for comment. Regulators say Targa has 30 days to respond and comply or request a hearing with the agency secretary.

Regulators also ordered a series of corrective actions and improvements to facilities that process gas for pipeline transportation.

The sanctions are based on allegations of violations of two permits, late reporting of emissions and an incomplete requirement for root cause analysis of excessive pollution.

The proposed air pollution fine against Targa would be the largest in state history imposed by the Department of the Environment, if pursued. The matter was also referred to federal regulators.

Separately, the New Mexico Court of Appeals last month complied with regulations aimed at combating air pollution in one of the nation’s top oil and gas producing states.

Democratic Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s administration has proposed new restrictions on ozone precursor pollutants as well as regulations to limit methane emissions as part of its efforts to combat climate change and meet federal standards in terms of air quality.