Methane Rule Knowledge Center

Refers to specific regulatory standards targeting emissions from new, modified, or reconstructed sources in the oil and gas sector, focusing on the detection, reporting, and repair of methane leaks. The rule also calls for the elimination of routine flaring of associated gases. This provision is designed to tighten control over methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas, to mitigate climate change impact and improve air quality.

Outlines regulations aimed at controlling emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and methane from existing oil and gas facilities. It expands upon earlier standards, setting forth stricter requirements for monitoring, maintaining, and reporting emissions to ensure a significant reduction in the sector's environmental footprint. States will be required to design and execute plans to meet EPA requirements or adopt the federal plan.

The protocol known as Appendix K applies to the deployment of OGI technology at the wellsite and in the midstream sector to identify methane using a thermal infrared camera. EPA will now require the use of Optical Gas Imaging (OGI), and the requirements will apply to the performance of the cameras, operator training, and recordkeeping.

LDAR (Leak Detection and Repair) is a set of procedures and technologies required for systematically identifying and repairing leaks of methane and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in oil and gas infrastructure. The frequency of LDAR surveys depends on the type of facility and the method used for surveying.