TotalEnergies Expands Methane Detection Efforts with New Drone Technology Partnership

TotalEnergies enhances its commitment to reducing methane emissions by deploying real-time detection equipment across upstream assets and collaborating with Oil India for methane measurement campaigns.

According to a news article in OFFSHORE ENERGY, TotalEnergies has strengthened its efforts to reduce methane emissions in response to the climate crisis and COP29. The French energy giant is set to install real-time methane detection equipment on all its operated upstream assets by 2025. This includes continuous monitoring technology to identify and address both fugitive and stationary methane leaks.

The company has also partnered with Oil India Limited (OIL) to deploy its advanced drone-based AUSEA technology, which detects methane and carbon dioxide emissions. This technology, mounted on drones, is touted as one of the most accurate methods for methane detection and offers access to hard-to-reach emission points.

By reducing methane emissions by 50% between 2010 and 2020, TotalEnergies is on track to meet its 2025 target, aiming for an 80% reduction by 2030. The firm is also promoting the UN’s Oil and Gas Methane Partnership (OGMP 2.0) framework and is collaborating with other oil giants to expand methane detection globally.

Patrick Pouyanné, CEO of TotalEnergies, emphasized that the company’s efforts are part of a broader industry push to achieve near-zero methane emissions by 2030. TotalEnergies continues to share its best practices and technology with other operators to drive progress towards this ambitious goal.