Satellite-Based Surveys Reveal Substantial Methane Point-Source Emissions in Major Oil & Gas Basins of North America During 2022–2023

Abstract

Utilizing imaging spectroscopy technology to identify methane super-emitters plays a vital role in mitigating methane emissions in the Oil & Gas (O&G) sector. While earlier research has uncovered significant point-source methane emissions from O&G production in the US and Canada, which are key regions with large methane emissions, a comprehensive post-COVID-19 survey has been notably absent. Here, we perform a detailed survey of methane super-emitters across multiple basins of North America (Marcellus Shale, Haynesville/Bossier Shale, Permian Basin and Montney Shale) using the new Chinese Gaofen5-01A/02 (GF5-01A/02) satellite measurements during 2022–2023. We detect 139 individual methane plumes emanating from 122 point sources, with flux rates ranging from 519 to 16,071 kg hr⁻¹. These emissions exhibit a highly skewed and heavy-tailed distribution, constituting approximately 23% of the flux inversion with TROPOMI in the sample region, with a range of 13%–40%. Moreover, we observe a 66.7% reduction in methane emissions in Permian Basin during COVID-19, followed by fluctuations until spring 2023. By summer 2023, methane emissions rebound to twice their previous magnitude (1.68 ± 0.58 Tg a⁻¹). Using these point-source surveys, we further quantify a regional methane emission of 2.69 ± 0.86 Tg a⁻¹ in Permian Basin. This estimation closely aligns with top-down inversions (2.22 ± 0.40 Tg a⁻¹) from TROPOMI. The upscale estimation underscores the effectiveness of high-resolution remote sensing measurements in improving bottom-up emissions inventories and refining regional methane emission assessments. Our results highlight the potential climate benefits derived from regular monitoring and specific remediation efforts focused on relatively few strong point-source emissions.