Methane Emissions Reduction at ExxonMobil

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In the pursuit of a more sustainable future, energy companies are increasingly recognizing the urgency of addressing methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas contributing to climate change. Among these companies, ExxonMobil, one of the world's largest publicly traded international oil and gas companies, has been making significant strides in mitigating its methane emissions.

From ExxonmobiL

ExxonMobil released its 2024 Advancing Climate Solutions Report, which describes the company’s efforts in decreasing emissions across their operations and the industry. Today, we’ll focus on the methane emissions reduction section of the report. 

Methane, the primary component of natural gas, is released into the atmosphere during various stages of oil and gas production, transportation, and distribution. While methane has a shorter atmospheric lifespan compared to carbon dioxide, it is significantly more potent in trapping heat, exacerbating global warming and climate change.

ExxonMobil has acknowledged the importance of reducing methane emissions as part of its broader commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability. The company has outlined a multifaceted approach to address methane emissions across its operations, focusing on detection, measurement, and mitigation strategies.

One of ExxonMobil's key initiatives is the implementation of advanced technology for methane detection and monitoring. The company has been investing in cutting-edge infrared cameras, drones, and other remote sensing technologies to detect methane leaks more efficiently and accurately. 

In 2023, ExxonMobil worked with Scepter to launch a high-altitude balloon to test advanced imaging technology and data processing platforms to detect methane emissions across a large operating area. 

Next, the company is venturing into space with the help of Scepter and Amazon Web Services. Together they’re developing satellite-based technology  to capture methane emissions data from operations in the Permian Basin, with plans to increase coverage for monitoring operations around the world. 

ExxonMobil has also built a central alert system that consumes data and tracks potential issues. From the report: “Launched in 2022, COMET is a $20 million investment to centralize, continuously monitor and analyze methane emissions data from sources across our operations in the Permian Basin for rapid detection and mitigation. When fully deployed at all 700 operated sites across 1.8 million acres in the Permian, COMET will ultimately provide near-continuous, real-time monitoring in the region. With opportunities to expand outside the Permian Basin, COMET is a potential game changer for ExxonMobil and the industry.”

Furthermore, ExxonMobil has been proactive in improving data transparency and sharing best practices related to methane management. The company has collaborated with industry peers, research institutions, and regulatory agencies to develop standardized methodologies for measuring and reporting methane emissions. By promoting data transparency and knowledge exchange, ExxonMobil seeks to enhance industry-wide efforts to tackle methane emissions effectively.

Other ExxonMobil efforts around methane include:

  • The Methane Guiding Principles, a framework that serves as a resource for regulators

  • Evolving the designs of their facilities to improve processes and protocols

  • Working to eliminate routine flaring

  • Replacing “high-bleed” pneumatic devices

  • Expanding the volume of MiQ certified natural gas

ExxonMobil's commitment to reducing methane emissions represents a positive step towards building a more sustainable energy future. By leveraging advanced technologies, fostering collaboration, and advocating for sound regulatory frameworks, ExxonMobil is demonstrating leadership in addressing one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time. 

H/t to Highwood Emissions Bulletin for this story.

Want to keep up with the latest tech, trends and deployments for drones & robotics with energy assets for detection of methane?  Be sure to check out Methane Strategies Forum at Energy Drone & Robotics Summit, June 10-12 in Houston, TX.