Responsible well remediation and exploration of community energy opportunities.
Responsible well remediation and exploration of community energy opportunities. Our approach centers meaningful relationships, practical information, cultural connection and responsible partnerships.
Explore the priorities below, learn how this area connects to our broader mission, and reach out for current program information.
DISCOVER OUR STORY →Three interconnected priorities guide how STCOA approaches this work and collaborates with families and partners.
01Explore partnerships for properly identifying, assessing and plugging eligible orphaned wells.
02Seek appropriate training and project employment pathways for participating communities.
03Assess whether separate energy recovery or generation projects are technically, legally and economically feasible.
Community-centered service begins with listening, respect and the belief that cultural identity is a source of strength.
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04Plugging wells does not itself produce usable energy. Any energy concept would require a separate technical assessment, land rights and approvals.
CONTACT OUR TEAM →
Orphan well plugging requires well identification, eligibility review, technical planning, qualified contractors and appropriate approvals. Energy opportunities, if any, require a separate feasibility study.
The From Wells to Watts concept brings together responsible orphan well remediation, environmental protection and the possibility of broader community economic benefits. It is a project-development concept, not a claim that every plugged well can produce energy.
01An orphan well is generally a well for which the responsible operator cannot be located or is unable to meet plugging obligations under applicable program rules. Eligibility and funding differ across federal, state and tribal programs.
02Proper plugging requires technical assessment, approved methods, qualified personnel, site access and compliance with relevant regulators. Environmental restoration may also involve surface cleanup, monitoring and documentation.
03STCOA is interested in community workforce participation where lawful and feasible. Training, safety qualifications, supervision and employment terms must be established with competent technical partners.
04Energy production is a separate question. A plugged well is ordinarily being sealed, not converted into a generator. Any geothermal, gas recovery or other energy concept requires its own engineering study, rights analysis, approvals and financial assessment.
05Tribes, landowners, agencies and technical partners interested in exploring eligible projects can contact STCOA to discuss feasibility, community benefits and responsible collaboration.