Developing a ‘fit for purpose’ approach to measuring methane emissions

Abstract

Tackling methane emissions from fossil fuel operations represents one of the best near- and medium-term opportunities for limiting the effects of climate change. Over the last few years, independent methane studies have challenged the accuracy and completeness of publicly disclosed emissions estimates. To address this, new methane accounting and reporting frameworks have been developed. Central to these frameworks are key principles linked to measurement, monitoring, reporting, verification (MMRV) and reduction. Woodside has taken specific actions to measure and reduce its methane emissions and is developing a pathway to embed ongoing and sustainable measurements technologies in its operations. Previously, Woodside discussed the management and valuation of methane reductions, this paper will describe the approach taken to develop methane measurement plans including (i) the objective of measurement plans, (ii) measurement technology attributes and (iii) the identification of measurement technology use cases. It also overviews measurement techniques such as satellite, aerial, drone, handheld and continuous monitoring which can form part of a curated multi-scale approach to MMRV across a portfolio of assets.