Enhancing Methane Tracking Through Supply Chain Mapping

Introduction

Methane emissions have long presented a significant challenge in the energy sector, particularly across the natural gas supply chain. As global policies tighten and market expectations evolve, effective tracking and mitigation strategies are increasingly crucial. During CERA Week, Georges participated in a panel discussion sponsored by EDF titled “The Next Methane Emissions Challenge: Supply Chain Mapping,” which highlighted emerging trends, key challenges, and innovative solutions that are shaping the future of methane tracking.

Panel members included Dan Grossman, Vice President of Global Energy Transition at EDF; Ken Robinson, President of ENGIE North America; and TJ Conway, Principal of Methane, Oil and Gas at RMI. Topics covered by the panel included:

1. Policy Drivers and Regulatory Landscape

Policies at both global and sub-national levels are playing an increasingly pivotal role in methane emissions tracking:

• European Union Methane Regulation: Set to implement import standards for gas by 2030, requiring precise methane performance data from exporters.
• U.S. State-Level Regulations: States like California are considering methane performance standards to regulate imported gas.
• Voluntary Initiatives: Programs such as the CLEAN Initiative in Japan and Korea provide methane visibility for buyers and shape industry expectations.
• As policies evolve, businesses must align their emissions-tracking strategies with regulatory requirements to retain market access.

2. The Importance of Accurate Measurement

The panel explored the limitations of traditional emissions estimation methods, such as emission factors, which are now considered outdated and inaccurate. The shift toward empirical data collection—using methane satellites, sensors, and real-time monitoring—has become essential. However, integrating various data sources presents a challenge, necessitating enhanced standardization and verification mechanisms to maintain scientific integrity.

3. The MethaneScout Platform: A Game-Changer for Methane Tracking

Georges was asked to highlight a new platform that will be launched in the coming weeks. Methane Scout represents a significant breakthrough in methane emissions transparency and tracking. This platform, based on the MiQ supply chain protocol, addresses the critical issue of data quality and provides a comprehensive framework for emissions accountability throughout the supply chain.

4. Aligning Incentives for Industry Adoption

The panel also discussed how market incentives can play a pivotal role in driving emissions reduction efforts. Certifications and third-party verifications enhance trust, while potential premiums for low-emission gas reward investments in cleaner technologies. Aligning incentives across the supply chain remains a challenge but is critical for fostering industry-wide adoption of best practices. The MethaneScout platform is positioned to bridge this gap by providing a transparent and data-driven method for tracking emissions, allowing companies to demonstrate their progress and align with evolving market expectations.

5. Future Milestones and Market Evolution

Looking ahead, the panel highlighted several key milestones that will shape the evolution of methane emissions tracking:

• 2025-2030: Finalization and implementation of the EU Methane Regulation.
• U.S. State-Level Standards: Introduction of methane performance standards.
• Expansion of Voluntary Initiatives: Growth of programs such as the ?CLEAN Initiative in Asian markets.
• Mainstream Adoption of the MethaneScout Framework: Industry-wide integration as the standard for methane emissions tracking and reporting.

The market’s evolution will depend on a blend of voluntary initiatives and compliance mechanisms, ensuring robust and scalable methane emissions tracking systems.

Conclusion

The panellists underscored the urgent need for more accurate and transparent methane tracking throughout the natural gas supply chain. As regulatory frameworks evolve and pressures for emissions accountability increase, companies must take proactive steps to improve data collection, verification, and reporting. Collaboration among industry stakeholders, regulators, and voluntary initiatives will be vital for driving progress.