LIVE & ONLINE CONFERENCE - 18 & 19 MARCH 2025, Houston Tx. (Workshops 17 & 20)
Addressing All Methane Emissions. Quick Detection & Timely Repair Of Leaks. Preventative Measures.
18 & 19 March 25, Houston.
Addressing All Methane Emissions. Quick Detection & Timely Repair Of Leaks. Preventative Measures.
18 & 19 March 25, Houston.
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The evolving landscape of midstream emissions regulations, highlighted by the EPA's Final Methane Rule and the complexities of the Rupture Detection Rule, presents significant challenges for pipeline operators. These regulations underscore the industry's critical need for swift, precise, and reliable measures to address potential pipeline leaks, ruptures, and methane emissions comprehensively.
This regulatory shift has necessitated a fundamental change in monitoring and response tactics, requiring operators to adopt more calculated strategies to navigate these intersecting regulations. The emphasis is now on enhanced detection sensitivity and quicker response times, compelling operators to innovate beyond traditional methods to meet these demands.
Adding to this landscape are several significant new regulations and aspects:
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) has proposed substantial amendments to enhance leak detection and repair standards. These amendments require advanced leak detection programs (ALDPs) that utilize aerial or vehicle surveys, handheld detection devices, and continuous monitoring systems. The new regulations aim to reduce methane emissions and other pollutants from gas pipelines and associated infrastructure, focusing on quick detection and timely leak repair.
EPA's Super Emitter Response Program (SERP): The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has introduced the Super Emitter Response Program, targeting large methane emitters. This program mandates continuous monitoring and rapid response to significant methane leaks, defined as emissions of 100 kilograms or more per hour. Approved third-party organizations will identify these leaks, prompting immediate investigation and remediation by operators.
Methane Emissions Fee (Inflation Reduction Act): Starting in 2025, the Inflation Reduction Act imposes a methane emissions fee on oil and gas operations. This fee begins at $900 per metric ton and increases to $1,500 per metric ton by 2027. The fee applies to facilities that exceed certain emissions intensity thresholds and is part of broader efforts to curb methane emissions across the sector.
Enhanced Leak Detection and Repair (LDAR) Requirements: PHMSA's proposed amendments also include stringent leak detection and repair (LDAR) requirements. These requirements mandate more frequent leak surveys and specify performance standards for detection technologies. The proposals cover transmission and distribution pipelines, with potential expansion to gas-gathering pipelines based on further data and public comments.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Waste Prevention Rule: The BLM is finalizing rules to prevent methane waste on federal lands, focusing on minimizing venting, flaring, and leaks from oil and gas operations. This rule is expected to be finalized by the end of 2024.
"Our focus is on maintaining compliance while embracing technological advancements in leak detection. This conference is a crucial junction for strategic insights and practical solutions."
— Chief Strategy Officer, Major Pipeline Infrastructure Firm, New Mexico
"Our main focus is identifying technologies that can detect small, gradual leaks and efficiently manage the resulting data. This conference is key for assessing and implementing these solutions."
— VP of Technology Development, Established Oil and Gas Corporation, Pennsylvania
"Ensuring the integrity of pipelines through advanced technologies is a top priority. This conference provides a deep dive into computational methods and real-world applications shaping the future of leak detection."
— Engineering Lead, Pipeline Safety and Compliance Firm, Permian Basin
As a midstream pipeline operator decision-maker, you face the challenge of implementing several closely related new regulations on emissions management and leak detection. This year, our focus has shifted to include a broader range of methane emissions management strategies alongside leak detection, reflecting the latest overlapping regulatory changes impacting the midstream sector. We've significantly revamped the agenda to provide a more strategic focus while maintaining technical drill-down sessions on emerging technologies and innovations. This includes future transportation technologies for carbon and hydrogen and managing leaks in these areas.
1. Broader Focus on Methane Emissions, Leak Detection, and Future Transportation Strategies For Co2, Hydrogen & Ammonia
Given the imposition of fees based on emission intensity thresholds set by the Inflation Reduction Act and the EPA Super Emitter Response Program, implementing advanced leak protection programs with new technologies is crucial. These legislative changes require a holistic approach when evaluating technologies, marking a significant strategic shift this year. While we still emphasize leak detection technologies, this year's focus is more strategic and all-encompassing. For example, we look at solutions for midstream facilities including compressor stations and gas processing units. The morning of Day Two addresses leak prevention and detection challenges associated with transporting CO2, ammonia, and carbon, aligning with our theme of considering medium to long-term impacts and future business opportunities.
2. Enhanced Panel Discussions and Case Studies with Integrated Roundtables
Panel discussions and case studies have consistently been highly valued, earning positive feedback year after year. For 2025, we are integrating more roundtables into every morning and afternoon session. These sessions will offer high-level presentations, technical talks, and opportunities for candid discussions with other operators and vendors. You’ll have the chance to explore what's working, examine the technologies under consideration, and discuss the criteria for selecting various options.
3. Emphasis on Emerging and Proven Technology Solutions
We highlight emerging technical solutions for new regulatory requirements, including innovations in
· aerial vehicle and satellite surveys
· handheld detection devices
· continuous methane monitoring with groundbased sensors
· optical gas imaging cameras,
· mobile monitoring units, and
· real-time data analytics platforms
- plus much more
This year, we also focus on innovative emissions management and leak detection technologies that have significantly improved over the last 12-18 months.
This includes the latest innovations in
- Advanced pneumatic controls and compressor solutions for midstream facilities
- AI, machine learning
- Automated leak detection systems
4. Advancements in Leak Detection Technologies
Enhanced LDAR requirements focus on technologies such as
· optical gas imaging,
· laser absorption spectroscopy
· mobile remote monitoring units
Significant advancements have occurred in the past 12 months, with new solutions constantly emerging.
5. Consideration of ROI and Implementation Costs
Strategic aspects will cover how operators implement critical changes first, such as continuous monitoring systems and real-time leak detection technologies, to comply with new regulations. Discussions will include technologies and programs that significantly reduce methane emissions and the latest technological developments, focusing on cost, ROI, and effectiveness.
6. Comparative Case Studies
Although the focus is on U.S. regulations, relevant case studies from Canada and Europe will also be included. For example, Canada aims to reduce methane emissions by 40-45% by 2025, similar to U.S. goals. This allows benchmarking and learning from parallel regulatory responses. Case studies will also touch on operational details regarding the implementation and new timely repair mandates, which require leaks identified during inspection to be repaired within specific timeframes based on severity. Minimizing intentional releases and using equipment that captures and reuses methane will also be addressed.
7. Computational Innovations
There are continual innovations in digital twin technology, offering significant advancements in leak detection and emissions monitoring.
8. Flexible Booking Options – Design Your Own Agenda & Workshop Itinerary
We are introducing flexible booking options, including half-day passes specifically focused on computational internal and hydrogen/CO2 leak detection, particularly relevant for Day Two. This flexibility makes the event more accessible and allows for more targeted learning.
These flexible options provide more tailored learning and networking opportunities, enhancing the overall event experience.
While the broad categories of emissions monitoring and leak detection—such as satellite surveillance, aerial drones, fixed ground monitoring, and optical cameras—have remained consistent over the past 18 months, significant advancements have been made in their effectiveness, accuracy, and resolution. Additionally, new technological innovations and refinements have made some previously cost-prohibitive solutions more affordable and accessible.
This year’s agenda reflects the evolving landscape of emissions monitoring and leak detection, incorporating strategic insights and technical innovations to help operators navigate new regulatory requirements and technological advancements.
Hear About The Latest Methane Leak Detection Technology Innovations
Speakers will focus on the most effective technologies for detecting gas leaks, highlighting those critical for pipeline and midstream facility functions. Key questions include:
Innovations are also improving the management and analysis of the vast data generated by monitoring systems. Case studies will showcase operators' technology choices and rationale, emphasizing the necessity for accuracy in leak detection to prevent false positives and negatives.
Best Practice Selection Of Satellite Surveillance System Service Provider
In 2025, numerous advanced satellite surveillance options will be available for methane leak detection. These range from high-resolution methane detection using proprietary infrared sensor technology to tropospheric monitoring instruments that measure atmospheric methane over wide areas. Additionally, satellites equipped with hyperspectral imaging are designed specifically for high-precision methane emissions monitoring.
Beyond the case studies and presentations, networking sessions and roundtables will provide opportunities to discuss the real-world effectiveness of these systems. Topics will include detection capabilities, accuracy, precision, coverage, frequency, cost, and ROI.
Operators will share insights on how they interpret and integrate the large volumes of data these satellites generate into their monitoring and operational processes, ensuring comprehensive and effective methane leak detection.
Innovations in Aerial Surveillance Using Drones - Which Operators Are Seeing Results?
Significant advancements have been made in aerial surveillance using drones, featuring high-resolution RGB cameras and specialized methane detection sensors. LiDAR drones can now create 3D maps of pipeline corridors, identifying ground movement and managing vegetation. Additionally, some drones offer multispectral and hyperspectral capabilities for enhanced monitoring.
Discussions will address the differences in data resolution and detail, the regulatory challenges of drone operations, and the integrating of these systems with pipeline leak detection and emissions monitoring processes. This comprehensive approach ensures operators stay informed about the latest technologies and their practical applications.
Understand Where & When Fiber Optic Technology Makes Sense
While fiber optic technology is costly, it offers significant benefits for operators, particularly in high-consequence areas, high-value pipelines, and environmentally sensitive zones. Fiber optics provide enhanced security and are highly effective for long-distance pipelines due to their precise monitoring capabilities.
Our presentations and networking sessions will delve into the cost-benefit analysis of fiber optic technologies compared to other monitoring solutions. These discussions will help you understand when and where fiber optics make the most sense, ensuring you can make informed decisions about their implementation.
Multispectral & Hyper-Spectral Imaging - How To Leverage The Technologies
One of the standout technologies in our research is multispectral imaging, perfect for instant response scenarios, routine surveillance, and pipeline integrity management. This versatile technology can be used in satellite-based, drone-based, or ground-based systems.
Learn about the technical capabilities of multispectral imaging, the best communication modes, and the advantages and disadvantages of different approaches, including fixed-wing aircraft and ground-based platforms. We will also address regulatory hurdles and data management integration, ensuring you understand how to implement these advanced solutions effectively. Also learn about the optimal use cases for Hyper-Spectral Imaging.
These sessions are designed to give you the insights to leverage these technologies for maximum operational impact, keeping your operations at the forefront of industry advancements.
Live Demonstrations and New Advances
Live demonstrations in the exhibition area of these new technologies will provide hands-on experience. New advances in multispectral imaging technology will be examined, including differences in spectral range and resolution, spatial resolution, and sensor platforms.
Negative Pressure Wave Monitoring
Many operators requested information on negative pressure wave monitoring, which detects pressure waves generated when a leak occurs. This technology offers high sensitivity and early leak detection benefits, and many operators find it cost-effective.
You'll learn about the optimal installation of sensors, data transmission, system accuracy, sensitivity to different leak types and sizes, integration, and operational reliability.
EXAMPLE SCENARIO ONE
Implementing satellite-based emissions monitoring systems to provide comprehensive coverage and real-time data on leak detection.
EXAMPLE SCENARIO TWO
Using drones for aerial surveillance to monitor emissions and detect leaks over large and remote areas.
EXAMPLE SCENARIO THREE
Ensuring the success of computational models, AI, data analysis, or advanced modelling for accurate leak detection and emissions monitoring.
EXAMPLE SCENARIO FOUR
Implementing fixed ground sensors for continuous monitoring of pipeline integrity and leak detection.
EXAMPLE SCENARIO FIVE
Protecting monitoring systems and sensitive data from cyber threats is a top priority. As digital monitoring increases, so do the risks associated with cyber-attacks.
EXAMPLE SCENARIO SIX
Ensuring continuous monitoring solutions are scalable and flexible to adapt to changing operational demands and future growth.
