How measurements of methane emissions can drive more effective reduction

Methane is the primary component of natural gas. Methane is also a powerful greenhouse gas. Reducing emissions of methane is considered one of the most effective near-term actions to keep the more ambitious 1.5°C goal of the Paris Agreement within reach. As part of its methane emissions reduction journey, Shell 1 has implemented the United Nations Environment Program (UNEP)-led Oil and Gas Methane Partnership (OGMP) 2.0 reporting framework. The goal is to enhance the transparency and accuracy of methane emission reporting through measurement-based quantification. Meeting OGMP2.0 Gold Standard requires implementation of technologies that quantify methane emissions at the source-level and site-level, and to reconcile the two. This requires the use of measurement technologies that are tailored to the specificity of the source and the site. For example, quantification of the emission rate of leaks at the source requires very different technology than measurement of methane emissions from incomplete combustion in gas engines or turbines. Selection of site-level measurement technology is informed by the emission profile of the asset (such as the time-variability, rates, and spatial distribution of sources) as well as its geographical characteristics and the facility archetype. In this paper we will provide insights in the technology selection strategy for Shell and how we rolled this out at a global level. Robust measurements are providing a more accurate picture of methane emissions, which can help to prioritize methane reduction opportunities. A case study of an upstream production facility is presented where it was found that replacement of gas driven pneumatic devices had a smaller impact than previously considered. On the other hand, the value case for electrification of gas engines was enhanced due to increased contribution of gas engine methane slip to the overall emission inventory.