The North American oil and gas industry has experienced unparalleled growth of oil production over the last five years. Since 2009, the U.S. and Canada have steadily increased oil production year to year. By 2014, the U.S. surpassed Saudi Arabia and Russia as the world’s largest oil producer with a production rate of 12.5 million barrels per day (b/d). At the same time, Canada became poised to top China as the fourth largest oil producing country. In 2014, Canada reported a production rate of 4.3 million b/d compared to China’s rate of 4.4 million b/d.
Along with increased oil production come increased requirements and restrictions. Oil and gas producers must find ways to comply with emissions regulations, such as North Dakota Industrial Commission (NDIC) flaring restrictions, without hindering overall production.