Energy Transition Outlook 2021

ENERGY TRANSITION OUTLOOK 2021

CASE STUDY: NEPTUNE ENERGY

Global independent E&P company, Neptune Energy, partnered with the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) in September this year to test a first-of-its-kind approach to enhance methane emissions measurement and mitigation on an offshore platform. Operators piloted a rotary drone fitted with methane sensing technology on the Neptune Energy-operated Cygnus Alpha gas platform in the UK southern North Sea. The drone measured emissions at key points on the platform, in coordination with an EDF representative. To quantify total potential emissions, a fixed wing drone carried out measurements while circling above, around 250 metres from the platform. The study provided the means to evaluate advanced methods for emissions’ detection and measurement and reporting, and has the potential to establish a more scientific benchmark for the wider upstream industry, addressing potential over/under-reporting of emissions which are currently based on “desktop calculations”. Neptune already has one of the lowest methane intensities in the sector (0.01% in 2020). It is a member of the Oil and Gas Methane Partnership (OGMP) and a signatory to OGMP’s new 2.0 framework which aims to improve accuracy and transparency of methane emissions reporting. The Cygnus study is a strong example of how Neptune – and the UK industry – is serious about tackling methane emissions. Given the short lifespan of methane, action today can bring results in as little as nine years, which will be crucial in helping meet the Paris Agreement goals. Methane reduction programs can also enhance process safety, support operational excellence and process optimisation, as well as reducing maintenance costs and production losses. The results of the Cygnus study are due to be published in a scientific peer-reviewed paper in 2022.

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