What It Means & How Encino Can Help
The EPA has issued an Interim Final Rule extending several compliance deadlines under the 2024 OOOOb and OOOOc regulations. The new rule gives operators more time to implement emissions monitoring, equipment updates, and leak detection protocols but it’s important to understand the fine print.
These extensions are separate and independent from each other, and not part of the EPA’s broader reconsideration proposal, which will follow a different rulemaking and public comment process.
The publication date is expected to be July 31, 2025.
Here’s what’s changed:
Key OOOOb and OOOOc Deadline Extensions
- Flare NHV Monitoring: Extended 120 days from publication, which will be on November 28, 2025.
- ECD Performance Testing: Extended 540 days (visible emissions checks still required), which will be on January 22, 2027.
- Closed Vent System no identifiable emissions (NIE) Compliance: Extended 540 days
- Low-E Valve Repair (Gas Plants): Extended 540 days
- Process Controllers: Extended 540 days for the zero-emission standard. Interim compliance similar to Alaska without electricity
- Storage Vessel Emissions: Multiple provisions extended by 540 days or 18 months including:
- Addressing concerns with modification triggers (increasing throughput piece), Legally and Practically Enforceable (LPE), and storage tanks that commenced construction after proposal, but before effective date
- Using LPE with specific criteria extended by 540 days
- Throughput-based modification trigger extended by 18 months
- 540-day extension for calculation emissions using the 30-day period of production. Sources are still required to calculate potential emissions, but need not use the 30-day production period and limits on potential emission can be considered LPE with or without the specific criteria in the rule
- Other modification provisions (e.g., tank additions) are still applicable during the interim period
- Super-Emitter Program: Extended 540 days, including technology approval timelines
- Flare Pilot Flame & Alarms: Extended 18 months for flares and ECD that must: 1 – operate with a continuous pilot flame and; 2 – install and operate a system to send an alarm when the pilot is unlit
- OOOOc State Plan Submissions: Extended 540 days
🗓 All deadlines begin from the publication date in the Federal Register (July 31, 2025)
📝 The rule is effective immediately, with a 30-day comment period
📊 Reporting deadlines remain unchanged
For full details, visit the EPA’s official rule summary and supporting documents here.
How Encino Supports Your Compliance Path
- Flare NHV Testing
Our mobile, route‑optimized testers offer real‑time NHV measurement. We plan routes to maximize throughput—testing many flares efficiently within tight time windows, ideal for meeting the 120‑day extended compliance testing deadline. - Leak Detection & Control Device Monitoring
Whether it’s process controller audits, storage vessel inspections, cover/closed‑vent system checks, or leak monitoring, we offer a full suite of testing and inspection services tailored to the 18‑month extended rollout. - Super‑Emitter Surveillance
We deliver integrated satellite-based detection using SATLANTIS technology, combining visual and methane-specific sensor data to flag large emission events quickly – critical for when the super‑emitter program comes into force. - Support for State EG Plan Preparation
Though the extension primarily affects states, delayed timelines benefit operators who may need additional data gathering or operational adjustments before new rules take effect. Encino can assist in mapping facilities, emissions inventories, permitting support, and readiness reviews.
Recommended Next Steps
Operators should review the full EPA Interim Final Rule and fact sheet to understand how these extensions apply to their facilities. While the additional time offers flexibility, preparing now will ensure compliance when the clock resets.
If you have questions or need a partner to help navigate this shifting regulatory landscape, Encino Environmental Services is ready to support you every step of the way. Contact us today!
