WEB Satellite Analysis Shows Repeat Permian Methane Emitters
Compressor Stations Account for Majority of Observed Methane Emissions
Researchers have used satellite data to measure methane emissions from the Permian Basin, one of the most prolific oil and gas producing regions in the United States. The study, published in the journal Geophysical Research Letters, found that compressor stations, which are used to compress natural gas for transportation, are responsible for the majority of the observed methane emissions.
Key Findings
- Compressor stations account for 60% of the observed methane emissions in the Permian Basin.
- New compressor stations are often major emitters due to inefficient flaring operations.
- The study highlights the need for better monitoring and regulation of methane emissions from oil and gas operations.
Methane Emissions from the Permian Basin
Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, and the oil and gas industry is a major source of methane emissions. The Permian Basin is one of the most prolific oil and gas producing regions in the United States, and it is estimated to be responsible for about 10% of the methane emissions in the country.
Previous studies have shown that methane emissions from the Permian Basin are highly variable, and that they can vary significantly from day to day. This variability is due to a number of factors, including the type of oil and gas production activities that are taking place, the weather conditions, and the efficiency of the equipment that is being used.
Satellite Measurements of Methane Emissions
The new study used satellite data to measure methane emissions from the Permian Basin. This is the first time that satellite data has been used to measure methane emissions from this region.
The satellite data was collected by the TROPOMI instrument, which is mounted on the Sentinel-5P satellite. TROPOMI is a spectrometer that measures the amount of light that is absorbed by methane in the atmosphere.
The researchers used the TROPOMI data to measure the methane emissions from the Permian Basin over a period of several days in 2019 and 2020. They found that the methane emissions from the region were highly variable, and that they could vary significantly from day to day.
Compressor Stations as Major Emitters
The researchers found that compressor stations were the major source of methane emissions in the Permian Basin. Compressor stations are used to compress natural gas for transportation. They are typically powered by natural gas engines, and they can emit methane if the engines are not properly maintained.
The researchers found that new compressor stations were often major emitters of methane. This is likely due to the fact that new compressor stations are often not equipped with the latest emission control technologies.
Implications for Methane Regulation
The findings of this study have important implications for methane regulation. The study highlights the need for better monitoring and regulation of methane emissions from oil and gas operations.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is currently developing new regulations to reduce methane emissions from oil and gas operations. The new regulations are expected to be finalized in late 2023.
The findings of this study will help the EPA to develop more effective regulations to reduce methane emissions from the Permian Basin.
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