Newly Finalized EPA Subpart W Rule Boosts Methane Emissions Monitoring and Reporting

On Monday, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that it has enhanced greenhouse gas reporting requirements by introducing new options for monitoring and analyzing methane emissions. The newly finalized subpart W rule, which updates the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program, allows the use of “advanced measurement technologies” and strengthens methodologies for analyzing the data collected. This update is aimed at addressing significant gaps in methane emissions monitoring and ensuring more accurate emissions data from oil and natural gas operations, according to the EPA.

The use of advanced measurement technologies and enhanced methodologies for analyzing data will help to identify and address methane emissions more effectively. This will enable regulators and stakeholders to make more informed decisions regarding emissions reductions and mitigation strategies. By updating the Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program, the EPA is taking a significant step towards achieving greater transparency and accountability in monitoring greenhouse gas emissions.

This effort is part of a broader initiative by President Biden’s administration to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change. The EPA is committed to improving the accuracy of greenhouse gas emissions reporting and to providing more comprehensive data on methane emissions from various sources. By implementing these changes, the EPA hopes to support its climate goals set forth by President Biden’s administration.