Driving Efficiency and Emissions Reductions Through Continuous Monitoring: A Cost-Effective Approach to LDAR Compliance

As global pressure mounts to reduce methane emissions, the energy industry faces increasingly stringent regulations to detect and repair leaks. In December 2023, the EPA finalized rules, including New Source Performance Standards (NSPS) OOOOb and Emissions Guidelines, mandating facilities to implement robust Leak Detection and Repair (LDAR) programs. These programs can leverage either traditional Optical Gas Imaging (OGI) surveys or advanced Alternative Test Methods (ATMs), such as continuous, real-time monitoring technologies.
This paper highlights the transformative impact of continuous monitoring on emissions detection, quantification, and operational cost efficiency. The monitoring system comprises three integrated components: (i) a network of metal oxide semiconductor sensors to measure methane concentrations and environmental parameters; (ii) a cloud-based platform using physics-based Gaussian Plume Modeling to locate and quantify leaks; and (iii) a web-based dashboard that aggregates emissions data and generates actionable alerts for remedial action.

We compare continuous monitoring to periodic OGI surveys, showcasing its ability to reduce compliance costs and expedite leak repairs at facilities in Texas and Colorado. Beyond LDAR compliance, continuous monitoring has proven effective at detecting operational inefficiencies, such as underperforming flares and burners – issues often missed by traditional methods. Real-world deployments achieved a 60% reduction in emissions within three months and an 80% annual reduction by adhering to NSPS OOOOb thresholds. By generating a continuous emissions dataset, the technology also mitigates compliance risks by time-bounding Super Emitter events. These emissions reductions have significantly lowered the frequency of OGI inspections, delivering substantial multi-year cost savings.

Through case studies in the Permian and Piceance basins, we explore strategies for deploying continuous monitoring across diverse facility designs. Participants will gain insights into best practices for visualizing emissions plumes, conducting investigative analyses, and remotely diagnosing leaks to minimize unnecessary field visits.

Continuous monitoring is not just a compliance tool; it is a strategic advantage for reducing emissions, safeguarding operational integrity, and controlling costs. This technology empowers field operators to take ownership of emissions management, ensuring regulatory alignment while mitigating external scrutiny.