The Oil & Gas Methane Partnership (OGMP) was launched in 2014, as an initiative led by the Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC)’s Mineral Methane Initiative (2Mi) and the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), with the objective of providing a comprehensive framework aimed at reducing methane emissions in the oil and gas industry. In November 2020, an increase in scope and goals for this program led to the creation of OGMP 2.0 framework, with the added support of the European Commission, 62 oil and gas companies, and the Environmental Defense Fund. This version provides a standardized approach to measuring, reporting, and reducing methane emissions.
In this article, we cover the OGMP 2.0 framework and the steps that oil and gas producers can take to achieve the OGMP 2.0 standard, contributing to the industry’s sustainable development and environmental goals.
OGMP 2.0 Framework
The OGMP 2.0 methodology is designed to promote deep cuts in the methane and black carbon emissions from the production, transmission, and distribution of natural gas. The framework specifies the following goals related to oil and gas:
- 45% emissions reductions in methane emissions over estimated 2015 levels by 2025;
- 60-75% reductions by 2030; or,
- A ‘near zero’ emissions intensity, such as the OGCI collective average target for upstream operations of 0.25% by 2025.
The framework has five levels of reporting, with Level 4 enabling to first reach the “gold standard.” These are summarized below.
- Level 1 – Emissions reported for a venture at asset or country level (i.e., one methane emissions figure for all operations in an asset or all assets within a region or country).
- Level 2 – Emissions reported in consolidated, simplified sources categories (based on the International Association of Oil & Gas Producers (IOGP) five emissions categories for upstream, three for midstream and downstream) using a variety of quantification methodologies (e.g., generic emission factors), progressively up to the asset level, when available.
- Level 3 – Emissions reported at individual source level by detailed source type (e.g., natural gas driven pneumatic controllers and pumps) and using generic emission factors (EFs).
- Level 4 – Emissions reported by detailed source type and using specific emissions factors (EFs) and activity factors (AFs). Source-level measurement and sampling may be used as the basis for establishing these specific EFs and AFs, though other source specific quantification methodologies such as simulation tools and detailed engineering calculations.
- Level 5 – Emissions reported similarly to Level 4, but with the addition of site-level measurements. The site-level measurements are intended to reconcile source and site-level emissions estimates.
See the OGMP 2.0 Framework document for more information.
The Path to the OGMP 2.0 Gold Standard
Here are suggested steps that oil and gas producers can take to achieve the OGMP 2.0 Gold Standard.
1. Commitment and Leadership:
The first step for oil and gas producers is to demonstrate a firm commitment to reducing methane emissions. Company leadership should articulate a clear vision and establish methane reduction targets aligned with OGMP 2.0. This commitment should be communicated throughout the organization, creating a culture of environmental stewardship and accountability.
2. Baseline Assessment:
To achieve OGMP 2.0, it is vital to understand the current methane emissions profile. Conducting a comprehensive baseline assessment will help identify emission sources and quantify the emissions intensity of different operations. This assessment should include well sites, production facilities, compressor stations, generators, engine stacks and related infrastructure. The goal is to gain a broader assessment of the emissions profile of the complete portfolio of assets.
3. Implementation of Best Practices:
Implementing industry best practices is fundamental to reducing methane emissions effectively. OGMP 2.0 provides a framework that encourages the adoption of proven techniques, technologies, and operational practices. These practices may include regular equipment maintenance, leak detection and repair programs (LDAR), improved well completions, and enhanced monitoring and control systems.
See Encino’s white paper Best Practices for Emissions Monitoring in the Energy Sector for more information.
4. Enhanced Monitoring and Reporting:
Accurate measurement and reporting of methane emissions are essential for OGMP 2.0 compliance. Implementing enhanced monitoring systems, such as continuous emissions monitoring or drone-based leak detection technologies, can provide real-time data and facilitate proactive response to any emissions issues. Transparent reporting of emissions data helps build credibility and allows for performance benchmarking within the industry.
See OGMP 2.0 Guidance Documents and Templates
5. Technology Innovation:
Embracing technological advancements is crucial for achieving the methane reduction targets set by OGMP 2.0. Ideally, oil and gas producers should invest in research and development and/or technology evaluation and screening initiatives to explore new technologies that can further minimize methane emissions. Examples include next-generation leak detection technologies, advanced facility designs, and low-bleed or zero-emission equipment.
Refer to Encino’s suite of technologies and equipment available to identify and minimize methane emission.
6. Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing:
Collaboration across the industry and sharing of best practices can accelerate progress towards OGMP 2.0. Oil. Gas producers should actively engage with peers, industry associations, and external stakeholders to share experiences, lessons learned, and innovative solutions. Collaboration can help identify emerging trends, promote standardization, and drive continuous improvement in methane reduction efforts.
7. Continuous Improvement and Verification:
Achieving OGMP 2.0 is not a one-time endeavor but an ongoing process. Oil and gas producers should regularly review and update their methane reduction strategies, leveraging new technologies, best practices, and industry advancements. External verification and independent audits can provide credibility and assurance that the emissions reduction targets are being met.
Summary
The Oil & Gas Methane Partnership (OGMP) version 2.0 provides a comprehensive framework for oil and gas producers to reduce methane emissions. By committing to OGMP 2.0 and implementing the outlined steps, producers can actively contribute to the industry’s sustainability goals while minimizing their environmental impact.
Achieving OGMP 2.0 requires strong leadership, technological innovation, collaboration, and a continuous commitment to improvement. As the industry moves towards a greener future, embracing the OGMP 2.0 standard is a critical step in mitigating methane emissions and addressing climate change.
The Encino Advantage
Encino is a pioneer in emissions monitoring in the Energy sector, providing clients with a complete range of environmental services, including:
- Methane Detection
- Continuous Emissions Monitoring (CEMS)
- Emissions Quantification
- Leak Detection and Repair (LDAR)
- Engine (Stack) Testing
- Remote Sensing Detection
- Strategic Consulting for developing an emissions monitoring and reporting system.
- Emissions mitigation products
We view ourselves as an oilfield services company, dedicated to helping Oil & Gas operators improve their environmental and economic sustainability for providing the world with reliable and affordable energy.
Contact us for a free consultation and evaluation of how Encino can help you achieve environmental performance that generates economic results.
About Encino Environmental Services
Formed in 2010 and headquartered in Houston, Texas, Encino Environmental Services, LLC is an emissions performance testing and monitoring firm that specializes in environmental consulting, combustion analysis, LDAR (leak detection and repair), CEMS (continuous emissions monitoring systems), Satellite methane emissions monitoring, and advanced environmental data platforms. These technologies and services are tailored for the measurement and minimization of emissions to support regulatory compliance and ESG strategies and objectives. The Company operates across the United States covering all major oil and gas basins as well as select international markets.
