ExxonMobil Rolls Out Plan for Methane Rules

US super-major ExxonMobil on March 3 released a model framework for industry-wide methane regulations and urged stakeholders, policymakers and governments to adopt rules similar to those it has applied internally across its own oil and gas operations.

“ExxonMobil has been applying the principles of this framework to our oil and natural gas operations for several years, resulting in improvements that demonstrate what’s practicable and achievable,” CEO Darren Woods said, adding the blueprint has been offered to other oil and gas companies. “Our industry has developed high-tech advances to curb emissions, and we also hope this framework will be helpful for governments as they develop new regulations.”

The framework is built around ExxonMobil’s voluntary methane reduction program, which involves prioritising the replacement of certain components at sites that have been identified as having a high probability of methane leaks. The framework also incorporates the latest available technology enhancements in infrastructure and substantial data gathering and research.

“More comprehensive than current federal rules, the proposed regulations would apply to new and existing sources,” the company said. Since 2016, ExxonMobil has reduced methane emissions from its unconventional operations in the US by 20% and is on track to reach its target of a 15% reduction across all its oil and gas operations.