New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) OOOOb Compliance and Regulatory Support

Client: Oil and Natural Gas Exploration and Production Company

Challenge

An oil and natural gas exploration and production company owns and operates over 100 facilities with associated gas wells subject to New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) Subpart OOOOb. Under this regulation, the client must submit an annual report that includes certifications demonstrating that each closed vent system (CVS) is properly designed and has sufficient capacity to route all emissions to a control device, and that each control device is adequately designed to accommodate those emissions.

As the OOOOb Annual Report is a relatively new requirement, and this was the first-year submittal was required, the client did not yet have established tools or processes to perform the necessary modeling or prepare the required certifications. As a result, they required outside support to ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements across their affected facilities.

Solution

Altamira worked with a software and engineering company to develop specialized ProMax models that simulate the associated natural gas flow through each affected facility. These models were designed to calculate the pipeline pressure from processes other than tanks flowing throughout the CVS and into the control device, using the maximum site-specific natural gas production volumes and data collected in the field.

To support accurate modeling, Altamira deployed field technicians to multiple sites to assist the client with comprehensive data collection and to provide guidance on proper collection and documentation.

Altamira’s scope of services included:

  • Collecting detailed field data across multiple facilities, including pipeline segment measurements, fittings, equipment counts and flare details.
  • Developing specialized ProMax simulations to model natural gas flow through the CVS and calculating pipeline pressure to the control device.
  • Preparing certification letters and obtaining Professional Engineer (PE) certification for all CVS models.
  • Drafting and reviewing the CVS and control device applicability sections of the NSPS OOOOb Annual Report to ensure full regulatory compliance.

Results

Altamira completed ProMax CVS modeling for more than 100 production facilities, confirming that the control devices at each site are capable of handling the expected pipeline pressures under normal operating conditions. The NSPS OOOOb Annual Report was prepared for timely submission and includes all required elements to demonstrate full compliance with regulatory requirements. Through this effort, Altamira strengthened its relationship with the client by delivering consistent, high-quality and reliable regulatory support. This collaboration not only ensures ongoing compliance but also establishes a strong foundation for continued partnership and future project opportunities.

For more information, please contact Laura Worthen Lodes, Chief Engineering Officer
Laura can be reached at laura.worthen-lodes@altamira-us.com

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