The Energy Sector Is Using State-of-the-Art Methane Leak Detection Technology to Reduce Emissions

Methane emissions are a significant contributor to climate warming, with the European Commission (EC) stating that they account for around a third of all current climate warming. Research revealed that over a twenty-year period, methane has a global warming potential many times greater than carbon dioxide. All over the world pioneering petrochemical plants are already taking decisive steps to limit methane emissions. However, conventional sensors are often not capable of accurately detecting, quantifying and monitoring methane emissions.

Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, exemplified by the scanfeld® system, which is the brainchild of Grandperspective GmbH, a Berlin-based company, directly tackles the limitations of conventional sensors. Unlike traditional monitoring systems, it is able to accurately detect, identify, and quantify a wide range of gases, including methane. Our presentation will explain in detail how FTIR spectroscopy technology provides more accuracy and visibility than traditional systems.

In February 2024, a series of controlled-released experiments, which were validated by a renowned independent research institute, proved that Grandperspective’s remote sensor technology was able to detect methane emissions at leak rates of only 100 grams per hour over a distance of at least 250 metres in real-life conditions. In total, Grandperspective’s team conducted over 80 assessments experimenting with different flow rates and wind speeds, across a range of distances.

The results of these tests are a significant moment for the industry, as by scientifically proving that it is possible to detect and quantify emissions at extremely low detection thresholds. Using FTIR remote sensing technology for the first time, the sector has a set of tools that can help it to considerably reduce emissions.

The limitations of traditional methane detection monitoring systems highlight the need for advanced technologies like FTIR spectroscopy as these not only provide accurate measurements but also offer solutions to a myriad of different methane emission – and other gas – detection scenarios. As regulations tighten, this pioneering technology could prove an indispensable tool in significantly detecting, tracking, monitoring, and ultimately, reducing methane and other gas emissions.