New framework for industry-wide methane regulations from ExxonMobil
ExxonMobil has released a model framework for industry-wide methane regulations. In a statement accompanying the framework it urged stakeholders, policymakers and governments to develop comprehensive, enhanced rules to reduce emissions in all phases of production.
Darren Woods, Chairman and CEO of Exxon Mobil Corporation, said: “ExxonMobil has been applying the principles of this framework to our oil and natural gas operations for several years, resulting in improvements that demonstrate what’s practicable and achievable.”
The model framework from ExxonMobil is based on its voluntary methane reduction programme, which involves prioritised replacement of components with a high-leak potential at production sites, technology enhancements to infrastructure and substantial data gathering and research.
It said it was offering the blueprint to companies across the industry as they consider how to make improvements to reduce the sector’s methane emissions. It said: “Our industry has developed high-tech advances to curb emissions, and we also hope this framework will be helpful for governments as they develop new regulations.”
More comprehensive than current federal rules, the proposed regulations would apply to new and existing sources. The company has reduced methane emissions from its US unconventional operations by 20 per cent since 2016 and remains on track to reach its target of 15 per cent reductions across the company.
The framework said that to achieve meaningful reductions in methane emissions, regulations should address and include four primary requirements:
- Leak detection and repair programs across oil and gas infrastructure
- Minimisation of venting
- Operational equipment controls
- Record keeping and reporting to support agency enforcement
ExxonMobil has advocated in the United States for a cost-effective, federal regulatory standard to manage methane emissions from both new and existing oil and natural gas facilities. It said: “The company will continue to work constructively with state and federal regulators, industry and nongovernmental organisations to develop and implement cost-effective and reasonable methane-emission regulations.”
ExxonMobil supports the Methane Guiding Principles for reducing methane emissions across the natural gas value chain, (which were signed in 2017). These guiding principles are being implemented in collaboration with stakeholders, including the Environmental Defense Fund, the International Energy Agency, the International Gas Union, the Oil and Gas Climate Initiative Climate Investment Fund, the Rocky Mountain Institute, the Sustainable Gas Institute, the Energy and Resources Institute and United Nations Environment.
For more information visit corporate.exxonmobil.com
5th March 2020
