New Federal Rule to Curb Methane Leaks from U.S. Gas Pipelines

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New Federal Rule to Curb Methane Leaks from U.S. Gas Pipelines

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Logo of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA)
Logo of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA)

The U.S. Department of Transportation has issued a final rule to bolster safety standards for natural gas pipelines. Announced on Friday, January 17, 2025, the new rule emphasizes updating leak detection and repair requirements for gas pipelines to ensure they are environmentally friendly. 

The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) estimated that the rule would result in up to $1.5 billion more in annual net benefits while eliminating up to 500,000 metric tons of methane emissions yearly.

It will impact approximately 4.5 million kilometres (2.8 million miles) of gas gathering, transmission, and distribution pipelines, as well as hundreds of underground natural gas storage and liquefied natural gas facilities across the country.

PHMSA Deputy Administrator Tristan Brown said the rule was developed through collaboration with the pipeline industry, public interest groups, and labor unions. 

“It will harness the tremendous new potential we are seeing from mobile leak detection systems, unmanned aerial systems, and other innovative technologies to mitigate this threat to people and the environment—keeping valuable natural gas in pipelines so they arrive safely for use in homes and businesses, and ensuring America is the global leader in safely transporting methane,” he added.

Brown emphasized the use of advanced technologies, such as mobile leak detection systems and unmanned aerial systems, to improve detection and mitigation efforts.

Focusing on preventive measures, the updated regulations require pipeline operators to implement advanced leak detection programs, including increased survey frequency and the use of cutting-edge leak detection technology, such as vehicle and aerial surveys, handheld devices, as well as continuous monitoring.

Further, the new rules emphasize lowering the reporting threshold for leaks to help detect smaller leaks as soon as they occur, while also encouraging minimizing releases from equipment venting or blowdowns during maintenance, repair, and construction, encouraging the use of methane capture technology, which would help minimize emissions. 

When it comes to repair and mitigation of leak risks, the new regulations necessitate the establishment of clear criteria and timelines for the repair of leaks that pose a threat to public safety or the environment to ensure timely response. 

According to USDOT, the rule implements Section 113 of the PIPES Act of 2020, which directed the Secretary of Transportation to promulgate new rules relating to enhanced leak detection programs and the use of advanced technologies. 

Requirements are based on 28 consensus recommendations developed by pipeline sector representatives. The Leak Detection and Repair rule forms part of the United States Methane Emissions Reduction Action Plan aimed at reducing methane emissions, protecting public health, promoting technological innovation, reducing energy costs, and supporting high-skilled jobs. 

Methane is a highly potent greenhouse gas that carries a far higher global warming potential compared to carbon dioxide. The final rule in full text will be published in the Federal Register.