EDGE is partnering with Deloitte, a leading global consulting company, to provide technical and organizational expertise for U.S. Government-funded programs to reduce methane emissions within the oil and gas industry in developing countries. This initiative is a response to the latest reports from the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), which found methane levels in the atmosphere are now higher than at any point in the past 800,000 years. While methane is considered a “short-lived climate forcer,” methane emissions have a negative long-term impact on the earth’s climate.
The EPA cites methane as the second largest greenhouse gas contributor to climate change following carbon dioxide, but it is 25 times more potent than carbon dioxide at trapping heat in the atmosphere. Methane emissions reductions in the oil and gas industry are “low hanging fruit” because of methane’s intrinsic economic value and reducing system losses is in alignment with best operating practices that reduce waste and inefficiency across the industry.
Led by EDGE partner and Industrial Services Sector Leader, the team will focus on working with government agencies and state-owned oil companies to support near and medium-term national-level strategy development for mitigating upstream and midstream oil and natural gas sector emissions. EDGE’s scope of work encompasses strategic planning, emissions assessments, and technical guidance. EDGE will assist government agencies in integrating methane reduction plans into their regulatory frameworks and corporate objectives.
This initiative involves benchmarking ideal strategies, conducting comprehensive emissions assessments, and creating strategic plans for methane emissions reduction. These solutions include energy efficiency programs, carbon capture and storage solutions, biofuels integration, and further exploration of alternative fuels and technologies. EDGE personnel primarily contribute as subject matter experts on technologies and techniques for identifying, quantifying and managing sources of methane emissions.
EDGE will leverage its expertise through the implementation of methane reduction strategies by leading technical training both on-line and on-site in participating countries. Trainings will incorporate all aspects of the complete methane reduction strategy in order to execute on all deliverables. These technical trainings are critical for collaboration, the long-term success of meaningful methane reduction and a sustainable energy future.