The Biden administration has unveiled a comprehensive plan to regulate methane emissions from the U.S. oil and gas industry. This announcement, made at the United Nations COP28 climate change conference in Dubai, signifies a crucial step towards global efforts to curb the impact of methane, known as a ‘super pollutant,’ due to its higher warming potential compared to carbon dioxide.
Crafted over two years, the new rules aim to specifically target methane leaks from various sources within the industry, including drill sites, gas pipelines, and equipment. The urgency arises from methane’s quicker breakdown in the atmosphere, emphasizing the need for immediate action to address its impact on climate change.
During a press conference in Dubai, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan emphasized the international commitment embedded in these regulations. “These new standards will not only contribute to tackling climate change but also enhance air quality for communities nationwide,” stated Regan.
The EPA’s strategy encompasses banning routine flaring of natural gas from newly drilled oil wells, requiring oil companies to actively monitor and detect leaks, and implementing a program employing third-party remote sensing to identify large methane releases from ‘super emitters.’
An estimated 58 million tons of methane are expected to be prevented from entering the atmosphere between 2024 and 2038, a reduction almost equivalent to the total carbon dioxide emissions from the power sector in 2021, according to EPA estimates.
New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham, recognizing the groundbreaking nature of the initiative, noted that the U.S. now has the credibility to set an example for the world. “We can demonstrate that we are capable of holding polluters accountable and making a significant impact,” she remarked during the press conference.
The rules have garnered support from environmental groups, including Earthjustice, which emphasized the importance of strong methane standards to protect the environment and communities surrounding fossil fuel extraction.
According to EPA projections, the rule is expected to yield climate and health benefits of up to $7.6 billion annually through 2038. Additionally, it is estimated to contribute to the recovery of up to $13 billion worth of natural gas over the same period.
However, the regulations have not been immune to scrutiny. The American Petroleum Institute (API), representing the oil and gas industry, is currently reviewing the rules. Dustin Meyer, API Senior Vice President of Policy, Economics, and Regulatory Affairs, emphasized the necessity for a balanced approach. “For this rule to be effective, it must strike a balance between emissions reductions and meeting the rising demand for energy,” Meyer stated in a press release.
Photo (agnesafrica.org)
By: Montel Kamau
Serrari Financial Analyst
3rd December, 2023
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