Oklahoma Geological Survey

PROJECT PURPOSE

This will replace and enhance the existing Seismic Network of the state that is indispensable to our efforts to detect and mitigate seismic activity and earthquakes. The use of this network and collaboration with regulators, industry and academia has reduced earthquakes by over 90% from the height of well over 1000 2.7 or better in 2015 to less than 70 per year. The current network relies on many borrowed monitors and we risk losing these essential capabilities. Also, this new network is essential to the ability of the state to do carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) which is essential to Hydrogen production and new expected Carbon regulations.

EVIDENCE

As Secretary of Energy & Environment, I am strongly supporting and believe that this upgraded network is essential to continuing the production of oil and gas in our state as well as supporting the creation of new industries and ways to mitigate carbon emissions from existing sources long into the future. This will support the production of clean energy and help ensure the affordability of our energy to Oklahomans.

POPULATION DESCRIPTION

Many rural communities, including indigenous communities are around or very near oil and gas production and saltwater disposal wells. This monitoring network detects any early signs of seismic activity to prevent larger seismic activity that can result in damage to communities. This enables regulators and industry to make early intervention to mitigate risk of any larger earthquakes.

PERFORMANCE MEASURING

Since this is a one-time capital investment, the performance will be measured in confidence from the Federal Regulators that our industry can safely deploy CCUS, oil and gas production and collect and store emissions from heavy industries from the burning of fossil energy. This will continue strong sources of tax revenue and job creation in the state.

ONGOING INVESTMENT AMOUNT

$

ONGOING INVESTMENT DESCRIPTION

None

ONGOING INVESTMENT REQUIRED

One-time project will not need continued funding