EPA proposes letting Alaska regulate carbon injection wells

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has proposed transferring primary enforcement authority for Class VI underground injection wells to Alaska. If the rule is finalized, the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission will issue and enforce permits for wells used to store carbon dioxide from industrial and energy sources in deep rock formations. Currently, the EPA holds this regulatory power, but the proposal would shift the burden to state officials under the Safe Drinking Water Act.

The agency announced the move on October 27, 2026. This decision follows a review of Alaska's application for what is known as primacy. The EPA determined that the state's Underground Injection Control program meets federal requirements. The federal agency stated that states are better positioned to protect underground water sources while supporting economic growth.

Emma Pokon, the EPA Region 10 Administrator, defended the transfer of power. She stated that the people of Alaska understand their energy needs and environmental protections better than federal offices in Washington, D.C. Pokon said the proposal would uphold the agency's commitment to cooperative federalism. It would also allow Alaska to increase energy production while safeguarding drinking water resources.

The proposal is part of a wider effort to accelerate federal permitting. Since 2025, the EPA has granted similar authority to West Virginia, Texas, Arizona, and Colorado. In total, seven states now hold primacy for these specific wells. The agency noted that this work was supported by funding from the Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council.

Jessie Chmielowski, a Commissioner with the Alaska Oil and Gas Conservation Commission, welcomed the potential change. She said the commission values its relationship with the EPA. Chmielowski noted that securing this authority would build on the state's existing expertise in Class II regulatory matters. This foundation would help ensure that geologic carbon storage projects are developed safely and in compliance with state standards.

The EPA is accepting public comments on the proposal for the next 45 days. The agency will also hold a virtual public hearing. Once the comment period closes, the EPA will review the input before making a final decision on whether to approve Alaska's application for primary enforcement responsibility.