Produced Water—Emerging Challenges, Risks, And Opportunities

Article by Earl L. Hagström (Sedgwick LLP), Christopher Lyles (Integral Consulting Inc.), Mala Pattanayek (Integral Consulting Inc.), Bridgette DeShields (Integral Consulting Inc.) and Mark P. Berkman (Brattle Group)

ABSTRACT

Produced water should be viewed as an environmental asset— part of the water resource solution—not as a waste that contributes to environmental problems; its treatment and reuse can reduce the stress on fresh water resources. Treatment cost is the most significant factor determining the volume of produced water that will be available for reuse. Water pricing, which is in large part a matter of public policy, must also be considered when reexamining how to maximize the use of this valuable resource. When deciding whether to treat and use produced water companies will need to weigh the risk of litigation and regulatory enforcement actions against the benefits of introducing treated water into the stream of commerce. Allaying the public's fear