Targa Resources Faces $47.8M Fine for Excessive Air Pollution in New Mexico

New Mexico regulators have issued a $47.8 million fine against Houston-based Targa Resources for allegations of excess air pollution at its natural gas processing plant near Jal, New Mexico. The New Mexico Environment Department cited violations of air quality permits and excess emissions of harmful gases that contribute to respiratory issues and climate change, including ozone-producing pollutants. The state issued a cease-and-desist order and mandated corrective actions at the facility.

The fine, which would be the largest in state history if upheld, stems from two alleged permit violations, late emission reporting, and incomplete root cause analysis of the pollution. Targa has 30 days to respond to the sanctions or request a hearing with the agency. The case has also been referred to federal regulators.

This enforcement action follows a recent decision by the New Mexico Court of Appeals, which upheld stricter air pollution regulations aimed at curbing emissions in one of the nation’s top oil and gas production regions. Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham’s administration has been actively pushing for tougher regulations to reduce ozone-precursor pollutants and methane emissions as part of its climate change efforts and commitment to meeting federal clean air standards.

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