The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a final rule to bolster methane emissions reporting requirements for petroleum and natural gas systems, in line with President Biden's Inflation Reduction Act. EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan emphasized the significance of this rule, stating, “As we implement the historic climate programs under President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, EPA is applying the latest tools, cutting edge technology, and expertise to track and measure methane emissions from the oil and gas industry.”
The finalized revisions aim to enhance transparency and accountability for methane pollution from oil and natural gas facilities, which are major contributors to climate change. EPA's latest action aligns with the broader efforts of the Biden-Harris Administration to reduce methane emissions across various sectors through the U.S. Methane Emissions Reduction Plan.
Furthermore, the Methane Emissions Reduction Program under the Inflation Reduction Act targets the urgent need to address methane emissions, recognized as a potent climate "super pollutant." The oil and natural gas sector, being a significant source of methane emissions, is a focal point for these regulatory measures.
In addition to the final rule, EPA had previously issued regulations in December 2023 to reduce methane emissions and other harmful air pollutants from oil and gas operations. These combined efforts underscore the commitment of the Administration to combat climate change by curbing methane emissions from industrial sources.
The EPA's actions will not only improve the accuracy of methane emissions reporting but also facilitate the use of advanced technologies such as satellites for quantifying emissions. The agency's proactive approach includes ongoing efforts to gather input on advanced measurement and detection technologies, ensuring the continuous enhancement of reporting programs.
This strategic move by the Biden-Harris Administration reinforces its dedication to environmental stewardship and aligns with the global push towards a cleaner, sustainable energy future.
