• CERAWeek
  • March 18 - 22, 2024

James G. Harcourt

Railroad Commission of Texas

Manager Geologic Advisory Unit, Oil and Gas Division

James Harcourt, P.G., P.M.P, M.B.A. Manager of the Geologic Advisory Unit (GAU) in the Technical Permitting Department, Oil & Gas Division.  The GAU is responsible for the protection of freshwater resources (GW-2’s or Water Bard Letters), geologic investigations, and the prevention of waste of natural resources and Rule 101 Tight Gas tax reduction evaluations.  Formerly, James worked in the State Funded Plugging Program. He is a licensed Professional Geologist in Texas, Pennsylvania, and Florida. Prior to joining the Railroad Commission, James worked as a Professional Geologist for more than 25 years across five states, focusing on exploration and production, groundwater protection, underground injection control, solid and hazardous waste disposal, and environmental protection.

Sessions With James G. Harcourt

Tuesday, 7 March

  • 10:30am - 11:10am (CST) / 07/mar/2023 04:30 pm - 07/mar/2023 05:10 pm

    What Initiatives Is the Energy Sector Taking Toward Water Usage?
    Considering the dramatic increase in induced seismicity, what initiatives is the energy sector developing to recycle produced water? It is costly to attempt to recycle this waste stream with today’s technology, so most operators turn to disposal. Water injection is also becoming an issue as regulatory agencies are limiting permits and creating moratorium areas where no injection is allowed. We must have investment in new technology in order to recycle this waste. Where will the investment come from?