Colorado regulator propose fining Noble Energy $1.53M for well blowout
The Colorado Energy and Carbon Management Commission Proposes $1.53 Million Penalty Against Noble Energy
The Colorado Energy and Carbon Management Commission (ECMC) is proposing a $1.53 million penalty against Chevron subsidiary Noble Energy for a blowout of a fracking well that sprayed pollutants over homes and a school in Weld County. The ECMC board, which regulates oil and gas, will hold a public hearing on March 18 to consider the enforcement action.
The incident at the Bishop well site on April 6, 2025, near Galeton resulted in well barriers failing and a loss of control over the pressure in the wellbore. Thousands of barrels of crude oil, natural gas, and fracking water spewed from the well pad, prompting Weld County and Galeton first responders, as well as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, to respond.
Chevron, responsible for remediating the affected area, is expected to complete the cleanup by spring 2030. The cleanup covers 317 individual parcels within 1.5 miles of the well, with six parcels already meeting the state’s standards. Chevron will bear all costs associated with the cleanup.
Despite the incident, Chevron remains engaged with the Galeton community, focusing on transparency and ongoing dialogue to rebuild trust. Homes were evacuated, and an unknown number of people were exposed to toxic air contaminants, according to Andrew Klooster of Earthworks.
The proposed fine by ECMC is seen as significant, with a commitment to monitoring cleanup efforts and ensuring Chevron covers all remediation costs.
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