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Bulletin 2007-42

December 7, 2007

Regulatory Changes to EUB Directive 020: Well Abandonment Guide

Effective December 7, 2007, the Alberta Energy and Utilities Board (EUB) has revised the requirements to capping abandoned wells at surface to prevent the potential buildup of pressure within the casing or the annulus between casing strings.

These changes are being implemented as a result of several incidents where abandoned wells have been accidentally struck and there has been a subsequent release of built-up pressure.

The following changes to Sections 4.6.2 and 5.4.2 of Directive 020 take effect immediately:

• All wells being abandoned at surface must be vented in a manner that prevents the potential buildup of pressure in any casing string.
• The option to use 8 linear metres of cement and a wiper plug to cap wells at surface has been eliminated.
• The method used to vent casing must be documented, retained by the licensee, and made available to the EUB upon request.

The EUB’s compliance process pertaining to Directive 020 is specified in Directive 019: EUB Compliance Assurance—Enforcement. A list of risk-assessed noncompliances is available on the EUB Web site www.ercb.ca under Industry Zone : Compliance and Enforcement : Risk Assessed Noncompliance.

The EUB may at any time order a licensee to re-enter and reabandon a well if conditions warrant.

Any questions regarding these changes or any other matters associated with Directive 020 may be directed to the EUB Well Operations Section by e-mail at WellOperations@ercb.ca.

William A. Tilleman, Q.C., J.S.D.
Chairman