Situation Assessment and Gap Analysis on the Monitoring, Measurement, and Management of Methane Emissions in the ASEAN Oil and Gas Market

Global figures indicate that 68 to 77 percent of regional methane emissions occur within the oil and natural gas production and processing segments, followed by transmission and storage, which account for 17 to 19 percent. Reducing methane emissions from the energy sector, particularly from the oil and gas sub-sector, presents a near-term cost-effective opportunity to limit global warming and improve air quality. Countries in ASEAN employ different methods and monitoring frequencies for measuring and reporting their emissions. As a result, there is a need for practical guidelines and compliance standards. The use of methane detection and quantification technologies is widespread among oil and gas companies in the region. These technologies include stationary sensors, satellites, handheld monitors, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and drones, mobile ground labs (trucks), and piloted aircraft, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. A recent situation assessment and gap analysis identified opportunities for regional collaboration based on a matter of urgency and the interests of the countries. These opportunities were confirmed by a roundtable workshop organized in December 2022 in Bangkok, which was available at the ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE) website. The workshop proposed three tracks for monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) of methane emissions: a) MRV regulatory framework and guidelines, b) methane detection technology, and c) capacity building. Potential implementing partners for MRV of methane emissions include ASEAN institutions, such as the ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE) and the ASEAN Council on Petroleum (ASCOPE), U.S. government organizations, such as the USAID Southeast Asia Smart Power Program (SPP), and non-governmental organizations, such as the Environmental Defense Fund (EDF). These organizations have solid footprints in the region and express their interest in joining forces with national governments. The ASEAN oil and gas sector's methane emissions are a significant concern, and reducing these emissions presents a near-term cost-effective opportunity to limit global warming and improve air quality. The use of methane detection and quantification technologies is widespread, but there is a need for practical guidelines and compliance standards. Regional collaboration and capacity building are essential for effective MRV of methane emissions. The ASEAN oil and gas sector's methane emissions are a complex issue, and addressing it requires a comprehensive approach. The use of methane detection and quantification technologies is a crucial step in reducing emissions, but it is not the only solution. Regulatory frameworks and guidelines, as well as capacity building, are also essential for effective MRV of methane emissions. Regional collaboration and coordination among governments, institutions, and organizations are necessary to address this issue effectively. The ASEAN oil and gas sector's methane emissions are a significant concern, and reducing these emissions requires a coordinated effort from governments, institutions, and organizations. The use of methane detection and quantification technologies, regulatory frameworks and guidelines, and capacity building are essential components of a comprehensive approach to reducing methane emissions. Regional collaboration and coordination are necessary to address this issue effectively and to achieve the goal of reducing methane emissions in the ASEAN oil and gas sector.