U.S. launches fast-track review of offshore fracing plan at Platform Gilda, California

(WO) - The U.S. Department of the Interior has initiated a fast-tracked environmental review of a proposed offshore well stimulation program at Platform Gilda, located about 8.8 miles offshore Ventura County, California. 

The review will evaluate a plan to use hydraulic fracturing on 16 existing wells within the Santa Clara Unit, operated by DCOR, as part of an update to the field’s development and production plan.

The Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) issued a Notice of Intent to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), launching the review under revised NEPA procedures tied to a national energy emergency. The process is expected to be completed on an accelerated timeline of roughly 28 days.

“This NEPA analysis is essential to informing our decision on the proposed update to the development plan,” said Acting BOEM Director Matt Giacona, noting that recent changes are intended to streamline environmental reviews while maintaining oversight.

Platform Gilda, installed in 1981, has produced more than 42.6 MMbbl of oil and 51.7 Bcf of natural gas to date.

A 10-day public scoping period is now open, with a virtual meeting scheduled for March 24.

Above image credited to Eric Thayer, Bloomberg.