SRP: GREENHOUSE GAS REDUCTION
This Strategic Research Priority will provide greenhouse gas reduction technology in the combustion process for both fugitive and vented natural gas.
outcomes & value to industry
• Understanding the carbon footprint of an operating company for the purposes of permitting new facilities.
• Improving standards for assessing performance, technological advancement and tools to mitigate emissions, and providing a standardized approach for assessing alternatives.
• Technology advancement and standards development to encourage agencies to implement more efficient and lower cost GHG regulations or permit requirements.
• Evolving regulations at the state, federal, and international levels, including carbon trading/carbon tax approaches.
industry improvement
Developing an economic prioritization model/tool to identify the GHG reduction efforts that provide the largest net reduction in GHG emissions per net present value of spend.
Increasing the efficiency of both compression driver and driven equipment.
Enhancing leak mitigation programs to efficiently implement alternatives to conventional regulatory leak detection and repair programs.
Reducing fugitive leaks through compressor rod packing, gas seals, and
Developing alternatives to natural gas pneumatic control and actuation devices, and assessing the feasibility and optimization of current alternatives.
Reducing natural gas blowdowns associated with pipeline repair and equipment shutdowns.
Developing enhanced natural gas leak detection/ quantification methods.
Working to change regulations that inhibit economically viable methods to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Developed an economic analysis tool that identifies the largest net reduction in emissions for different technologies and operating conditions.
Completed a market review of currently available, and emerging technology that will replace obsolete high-flow sampling equipment. Currently conducting lab and field testing of identified technologies.
A comprehensive examination of both established and evolving technologies for detecting and measuring methane leaks has been conducted. This involved a thorough evaluation of the technology landscape and market, leading to the creation of an assessment tool designed to assist operators in selecting the most suitable leak detection and quantification technology for their specific circumstances.
Completed a literature review that depicts current techniques for minimizing blowdowns by pipelines during repairs and replacements. Currently conducting experimental testing of repair technologies as well as developing a best practice document for making temporary repairs permanent.
Completed a literature review that assessed retrofittable, low-cost flow sensors for compressor stations that will facilitate continuous monitoring and diagnostics of equipment.
Completed an in-depth analysis, utilizing desktop research, to explore a methodology for monitoring facility efficiency through the application of established technology and calculation methods. Employed real-world telemetry data to showcase specific instances of potential reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.
Conducted an examination of valve technology designed to facilitate the secure restoration of a leaking valve without necessitating its removal from service. Currently exploring various sealing technologies and techniques suitable for on-site repairs.
Research was recently launched on operation and maintenance gas venting activities at meter stations to evaluate opportunities for reduction or elimination of these activities.
Completed an initial numerical screening of new ignition techniques to determine which, if any, techniques are promising for reducing methane emissions through ignition system improvements and should be further examined with on-engine experimental evaluation.
CURRENT RESULTS
Leadership
Thomas Lumadue
The GHG Emissions Reduction SRP has provided solutions to help operators meet their corporate GHG intensity & reduction metrics. The research projects have provided GHG emissions reduction opportunities on both the pipelines & the compressor station facilities with projects from multiple PRCI Technical Committees (CPS, MTC, SOM, DMC).
The input from multiple PRCI Technical Committees to reduce both combustion & fugitive/vented GHG emissions was one of the most important goals achieved this past year, in addition to research project co-funding opportunities with INGAA, DOT (PHMSA), and GMRC. Noteworthy projects from the year include:
CPS-17-06 CO2e economic analysis tool which provide operators a tool to compare GHG emission reduction alternatives to identify the GHG reduction technologies with the most benefit.
CPS -17-08 Reciprocating Engine Exhaust Methane Slip Reduction projects includes multiple technologies to improve combustion efficiency and thus reduce not only GHGs but also NOx & CO.
MATR-3-15 Methods to reduce pipeline blowdowns to allow repairs & inspections.
MEAS-9-03 High Flow Sampler Replacement to provide a means to measure methane leaks
This year has been full of exciting new technology, challenging solutions to reduce GHGs, and opportunities for operators to minimize GHG emissions at their facilities.
- Tom Lumadue
