Tackling Climate Challenge Through Mitigation of Methane Emissions

Abstract

Abstract The global climate challenge requires urgent actions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. Among the various greenhouse gases, methane has gained significant attention due to its potent warming potential. Methane, a greenhouse gas with a shorter atmospheric lifetime compared to carbon dioxide but absorbs much more energy contributes significantly to global warming. Fugitive methane emissions from leak points and vents not only leads to loss of energy resources but is a major source of GHG emissions, contributing to global warming. In line with ADNOC commitment towards Oil and Gas Methane Partnership (OGMP 2.0) Gold Standard [1], The ADNOC Group Company successfully completed a comprehensive Leak Detection and Repair Program (LDAR) in 2021/2022 to identify and address any fugitive emissions from the process of its operations. The Group Company has implemented a pragmatic and cost-effective and Leak Detection and Repair Program (LDAR) to address fugitive emissions within its operations. The LDAR program involved a comprehensive and systematic approach to identify and mitigate leaks from various equipment, such as valves, pumps, vents etc. The method began with collecting plant data such as PFDs, P&IDs, hydrocarbon composition etc. Next, an inventory of potential existing leak sources was conducted (such as flanges, valves, pumps seals, connectors, vents etc.). Following that, on ground monitoring of each leak point was conducted through Toxic Vapour Analyzer as per US EPA Method 21. After that, estimations of total fugitive emissions including methane were considered to develop the program. Ultimately, the repaired leaks were re-monitored to ensure and validate no further emissions. Around ~1.5 million of potential leak sources were monitored across all six operating plants. Consequently, around 4,450 points were found leaking (as per leak definition), resulting in release of ~990 T/year of fugitive emissions (methane emissions ~370 T/year). Majority of the leaks were repaired showing significant reduction in the annual fugitive emissions. The validation of this reduction is in process through re-measurement. In addition, the Company is piloting Satellite and Laser based methane monitoring, to enhance the detection of methane emissions through the adoption of innovative technologies.