1. The department shall actively implement a modern oil well closure
technologies program which shall assist in the implementation of closure
technologies on abandoned oil wells and well fields in the state. The
program shall:
a. promote the implementation of plugging closure technologies on
abandoned oil wells; and
b. identify special needs and problems facing firms implementing well
plugging technologies on abandoned oil wells and recommend approaches
and solutions to address such identified needs and problems.
2. The program shall provide for grants for programs of oil well
plugging on abandoned oil wells by persons, firms, or corporations
located in the state of New York.
3. Applications for grants under this program shall be evaluated based
upon the following criteria:
a. the technical feasibility of the proposals;
b. the energy conservation potential of such applications;
c. the extent such closure will provide for high grade crude oil
utilized for the development of high efficiency lubricants;
d. the environmental benefits to be accrued from the utilization of
such technologies; and
e. the possibilities for dissemination of the closure technologies to
other firms.
4. The department, in carrying out the provisions of this title, shall
coordinate, where feasible, with the state energy office.