TotalEnergies Takes the Lead in Methane Emissions Reduction

TotalEnergies has announced a significant leap in its efforts to reduce methane emissions, reinforcing its commitment to achieving near-zero methane emissions across its operated Upstream sites by 2030. The company will implement continuous, real-time methane detection systems across all its operational sites, setting a new industry standard in emissions monitoring and management. This move aligns with TotalEnergies’ ongoing ambition to cut methane emissions by 50% by 2024, a target it is poised to meet a year ahead of schedule.

TotalEnergies' new initiative builds on the company's 2022 commitment to reach near-zero methane emissions in its operated assets by 2030, an ambitious goal aimed at significantly reducing the environmental impact of its oil and gas activities. As part of this effort, the company has already made considerable progress and is on track to achieve an 80% reduction in methane emissions by 2030.

The continuous, real-time detection technology is the latest step in TotalEnergies' comprehensive approach to methane emissions management, which includes existing measures like aerial drone surveys (AUSEA1) and an array of ground-based detection technologies. By deploying advanced detection systems that include Internet of Things (IoT) sensors, infrared cameras, flowmeters, and Predictive Emissions Monitoring Systems (PEMS) at all of its operated Upstream facilities, TotalEnergies is ensuring that methane leaks are detected and addressed as soon as they occur.

The real-time detection system will be operational at all of TotalEnergies' Upstream sites by the end of 2025. This continuous monitoring will enable the company to identify methane emissions—both fugitive and stationary—instantly and take immediate corrective actions to prevent or repair leaks. This proactive approach will ensure that TotalEnergies not only meets but exceeds its emissions reduction goals.

Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies, emphasized the company’s commitment to the fight against climate change. "Slashing methane emissions is a short-term priority to contribute to the fight against climate change," he stated. "Continuous, real-time detection will enable our operators to act in an even more decisive manner to reduce methane emissions and repair leaks. Achieving near-zero methane emissions is essential to our decarbonization efforts, and we are proud to be leading the way in deploying this equipment at scale."

Pouyanné further noted that as a signatory of the Oil & Gas Decarbonization Charter (OGDC), TotalEnergies is committed to sharing best practices and collaborating with the broader industry to tackle methane emissions. "We will continue to work with the industry to share best practices in measuring and fighting methane emissions," he added.