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Advancing methane emissions accountability in LNG: measurement-based inventories and global leak detection and repair (LDAR) best practices.

Number: 72

Author(s) : HARMON A., RAI S.

Summary

The global natural gas industry, particularly for Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), has experienced rapid growth, driving increased attention to methane emissions mitigation across the supply chain. Advanced measurement technologies and Leak Detection and Repair (LDAR) best practices have
become essential for reducing fugitive emissions and improving operational safety. Traditional LDAR programs rely on periodic inspections using handheld devices, but recent advancements in remote sensing, continuous monitoring, and aerial detection technologies are transforming industry
practices. These innovations enable operators to identify leaks faster, prioritize repairs, and integrate emissions data into broader environmental strategies.
Measurement-Informed Inventories (MII) represent a significant evolution in emissions accounting, bridging the gap between LDAR mitigation and transparent reporting. By leveraging direct measurements and reconciliation protocols, MII provides operators with accurate, site-specific emissions profiles. This approach supports credible and comparable methane emissions data, which is increasingly demanded by regulators, investors, and importing countries. MII methodologies also enable operators to calculate segment-level methane emissions intensities and estimate their supply chain emissions for LNG products, enhancing transparency across international supply chains.
International regulations further underscore the urgency of harmonized practices. The U.S. DOT PHMSA’s PIPES Act, EPA’s NSPS Subparts OOOOa, OOOOb, and OOOOc, the EU Methane Regulation, Japan and South Korea’s CLEAN Initiative, and updates to NFPA 59A collectively aim to reduce methane emissions. However, the global nature of LNG trade often creates overlapping requirements, that could lead to inefficiencies for operators. GTI Energy, with funding from PHMSA, conducted a comprehensive gap analysis of LDAR regulations, identifying redundancies and proposing a matrix framework to streamline compliance.
Accounting for MII within this landscape is essential for achieving credible and comparable emissions reporting. A consistent and transparent methodology for measuring and reporting emissions intensity ensures data comparability across different countries, regions, and companies. Such frameworks not only improve accuracy but also enable operators to meet evolving regulatory and voluntary commitments while supporting global climate objectives. GTI Energy’s Veritas offers a standardized, technology-neutral, OGMP 2.0-compliant framework for measuring and verifying
methane emissions along the natural gas supply chain. Veritas addresses stakeholders’ need for credible and comparable methane emissions data. Developed through collaboration with industry, research, and environmental stakeholders, Veritas enables accurate methane emissions inventories informed by direct field measurements.
This paper will share key findings from GTI Energy’s regulatory gap analysis and outline strategies to enhance regulatory efficiency and improve emissions accounting through regulatory reform and voluntary initiatives.
 

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Details

  • Original title: Advancing methane emissions accountability in LNG: measurement-based inventories and global leak detection and repair (LDAR) best practices.
  • Record ID : 30034685
  • Languages: English
  • Subject: Technology
  • Source: 21st International Conference & Exhibition on Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG2026)
  • Publication date: 2026/02/05

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