Source: Texas Standard
Emissions intensity drops sharply in the Permian Basin even as production surges, driven by innovation and new technologies.
Methane emissions across Texas continue to decline, even as oil and natural gas production approaches record levels, according to a new report released by Texans for Natural Gas. The findings point to significant reductions in methane and flaring intensity, particularly in the Permian Basin, the state’s largest energy-producing region.
The analysis found that methane intensity in the Permian Basin reached one of its lowest levels in over a decade in 2023, at 0.49 metric tons per barrel of oil equivalent (MT/boe). Since 2011, methane intensity in the region has declined by nearly 83%, while oil and natural gas production increased by 482% during the same period.
Flaring intensity in the Permian also dropped by 65% since 2015. While there was a slight uptick in flaring intensity in 2023 compared to 2022, the report attributes this to several factors, including record production levels, limited takeaway capacity, and low natural gas prices at the Waha Hub. Preliminary estimates indicate a potential 14% decrease in flaring intensity for 2024, suggesting the 2023 increase may be an anomaly.
Statewide, Texas flaring intensity has decreased 47% since its peak in 2018. Over that same time frame, total production has increased by nearly 25%, making 2023 the second-highest year for oil and gas production in Texas history, only surpassed by early estimates for 2024.
Nationally, the United States reached record levels of oil and gas production in 2023, with a nearly 9% increase from 2022. Despite this growth, flaring intensity remained near its lowest levels since 2012.
Industry leaders attribute the decline in emissions to operational improvements and the adoption of new technologies.
“Thanks to constant innovation and improvements in production processes, as well as increased use of new technologies such as AI, the oil and natural gas industry is making incredible progress protecting the environment and bolstering our energy security,” said Todd Staples, president of Texas Oil & Gas Association (TXOGA).
The role of technology in reducing emissions was a focal point at the recent Energy Elevated Technology Showcase held in San Antonio last fall. Hosted by TXOGA in partnership with the Texas Methane & Flaring Coalition, the event highlighted innovations in emissions reduction, remote monitoring, automation, and data analytics.
Six companies presented their technologies, including SMARTLink, Transect, Qube Technologies, Maze Environmental, Alert 360, and Satelytics. Transect won the “Audience Favorite Award,” while Maze Environmental was named “Most Innovative.”
TXOGA President Todd Staples emphasized the importance of innovation in maintaining both environmental and energy leadership. “From the wellhead, through the pipelines, to the refineries and export facilities, Texas oil and natural gas companies set the bar for operational excellence and environmental progress,” Staples said during the event.
As Texas continues to be a leading energy producer, the data suggest that environmental performance is improving alongside output. With continued investment in technology and infrastructure, industry stakeholders say they are optimistic about maintaining these trends in the years ahead.
