DNR calls for briefing on Point Thomson plan of development

The Alaska Department of Natural Resources has called for briefing on an appropriate remedy following rejection of the proposed modified 22nd plan of development for the Point Thomson unit.

Alaska Superior Court Judge Sharon Gleason’s Dec. 26 decision on the appeal by Exxon Mobil Corp., BP Exploration (Alaska), Chevron U.S.A. and ConocoPhillips Alaska affirmed DNR’s decision to reject the proposed plan but remanded the matter to DNR so that the appellants could be heard on an appropriate remedy (see story in Jan. 6 issue of Petroleum News).

In a Jan. 3 letter to attorneys for the appellants, DNR Commissioner Tom Irwin said the department is providing notice that it is considering an appropriate remedy for the failure to submit an acceptable plan and “is specifically considering the remedy of termination of the Point Thomson unit.”

He said the companies may submit briefing to DNR on whether unit termination is the appropriate remedy — and if unit termination is not appropriate, what remedy would be appropriate for the failure to submit an acceptable plan of development.

Briefings are due Feb. 4.

The department has not yet set a date for oral arguments.

He also said if appellants “want more procedure or proceedings on remand than written briefs and oral argument,” they must request additional procedures or proceedings in writing by Jan. 18.

—Petroleum News