East Vacuum Liquid Recovery and CO2 Plant - Oil Extraction Facility in Buckeye, New Mexico

The East Vacuum Liquid Recovery and CO2 Plant is an oil extraction facility situated approximately 5 miles east of Buckeye, Lea County, New Mexico. It operates within the Permian Basin, one of the most prolific oil and gas producing regions in the United States. The facility is classified under NAICS code 211120 for oil and gas extraction and is currently operational. As an oil extraction plant, this facility focuses on recovering liquid hydrocarbons and carbon dioxide from natural gas streams. In the Permian Basin, such plants are integral to processing raw production from numerous wells. The regulatory framework includes the US EPA Clean Air Act (CAA) Refinery MACT standards and state-level New Mexico Environment Department regulations. The facility likely employs separation and compression technologies typical of midstream gas processing. The plant's location in Lea County places it in a semi-arid environment with sparse population, reducing direct community exposure. However, its role in the Permian Basin means it supports significant regional oil production, contributing to both energy supply and local economic activity. The facility's CO2 recovery aspect also aligns with enhanced oil recovery practices common in the area.

The facility is situated in the Permian Basin, a region with high oil and gas activity, leading to potential air emissions from flaring and fugitive sources. The semi-arid climate and limited water resources make water management critical. Spill risks exist due to handling of hydrocarbons and produced water, though the remote location reduces population exposure. Regulatory oversight by the EPA and New Mexico Environment Agency addresses these concerns through permitting and inspections.