Natural Gas Utilities Launch New EPA Program to Reduce EmissionsA concerted effort by natural gas utilities to upgrade our nation’s pipeline network in order to enhance safety has also contributed significantly to a declining trend in emissions from the natural gas distribution system. A report published last year led by a team from Washington State University and sponsored by the Environmental Defense Fund found that as little as 0.1 percent of the natural gas delivered nationwide is emitted from local distribution systems.
In an effort that will help contribute to this declining trend, nearly 40 AGA-member natural gas utilities launched the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Natural Gas STAR Methane Challenge Program, a voluntary partnership between EPA and the U.S. oil and natural gas industry, focusing on achieving cost-effective and flexible methane emission reductions from natural gas operations. The Founding Partner companies present at the launch operate in 43 states, represent nearly 70 percent of natural gas customers and operate 1,284,064 miles of natural gas distribution mains and services nationwide.
The new and innovative program was launched on March 30 at the Global Methane 
Forum, hosted by the Global Methane Initiative and the Climate and Clean Air Coalition, which brought together policymakers and industry experts from more than 50 countries. At the launch ceremony, EPA’s Acting Assistant Administrator for the Office of Air and Radiation Janet McCabe personally acknowledged and greeted representatives from each of the Founding Partner companies and noted that the Program “complements regulatory efforts that will help the U.S. meet the Obama Administration’s goal of reducing methane emissions by 40-45 percent by 2025.”
Partner companies participating in the program will have made company-wide commitments to implement a host of best management practices across their operations within five years. This will allow companies to showcase their efforts in reducing natural gas emissions, improving air quality and capturing and monetizing this valuable energy resource. Partner achievements will be publicly recognized and tracked by submitting annual data directly to EPA.
Having 39 AGA-member companies present as Founding Partners was an impressive showing that demonstrates the deep commitment and dedication of our industry, but it’s important to note that additional companies can join the Natural Gas STAR Methane Challenge Program at any time.
Click here for a complete list of companies who joined the Natural Gas STAR Methane Challenge Program.
