Azalea Battery Oil Extraction Facility, Jal, New Mexico | Permian Basin

Azalea Battery is an operational oil extraction facility situated in Lea County, New Mexico, approximately 8.3 miles southwest of Jal. The facility is part of the Permian Basin, a major oil-producing region that spans West Texas and southeastern New Mexico. As an oil extraction site, it contributes to the United States' domestic crude oil supply, supporting the country's energy infrastructure. The facility operates under the regulatory framework of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the New Mexico Environment Department. Oil extraction activities in this region are subject to federal and state regulations, including the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act, which govern emissions and water management. The Permian Basin is known for its extensive horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing operations, which have significantly increased production in recent years. Azalea Battery plays a role in the local economy by supporting jobs and energy production in Lea County. The facility's location in a semi-arid region with limited water resources underscores the importance of responsible water management in oil extraction. Its operations are part of a broader network of infrastructure that supplies crude oil to refineries and markets across the United States.

The facility is located in the Permian Basin, a region with significant oil extraction activity. Environmental considerations include potential impacts on air quality from volatile organic compounds and methane emissions, as well as water usage and disposal challenges in the arid climate. Spill risks and groundwater protection are key concerns, given the proximity to sensitive ecosystems and agricultural areas.