Industry calls for measurement, regulation to address methane leaks

With a “well-to-wake” approach to addressing methane leakage, an industry-led group has released its first report detailing research, testing, and steps required to better understand and eliminate methane leakage problems associated with liquefied natural gas (LNG) storage tanks. The report outlines the challenges of accurately measuring unburned methane emissions while calling for a globally standardized measurement and monitoring framework and a technology-focused regulatory framework to support the development and deployment of mitigation technologies.

The initiative, known as MAMII (Methane Abatement in Maritime Innovation Initiative), was launched in 2022 and is led by Lloyd’s Register’s SafetyTech Accelerator with leading industry players including Capital Gas, Carnival Corporation, Celsius Tankers, Chevron, Knutsen, Maran Gas Maritime, MSC, Mitsui OSK Lines, MISC, NYK Line, Seapeak, Seaspan Corporation, Shell, Total Energies and others. It was established to address the issue of methane leakage from ships and aims to support the steps required to reduce the environmental impact of LNG by reducing methane leakage to near zero.

The group released its First report by reviewing a detailed analysis, taking into account issues ranging from regulations, measurement and reporting, reduction actions, technology costs and the individual stages of the supply chain – from production, through delivery and bunkering, to use on ships.

They echo the industry’s stance that new engines are making great strides in reducing methane leaks, while acknowledging that older engines have problems. They looked at other parts of the supply chain, saying it will be easier to fix problems upstream and during bunkering. They emphasize intentional releases during refueling or fuel line cleaning, and the need to quickly identify and fix leaks.

The report says the industry needs more data to assess the level and impact of methane released by LNG-fueled ships. Having discovered that it lacks unified and consistent measurement tools, MAMII says it is already taking action by developing measurement guidelines while preparing trials and focusing on the most promising solutions.

“From better engine combustion to reducing or catalyzing harmful gases and blending hydrogen with traditional fuels, the scope and potential of these technologies have exceeded our expectations,” said Panos Mitrou, MAMII Chairman. “It is clear that with informed and early decision-making, we have the tools to reduce methane. However, without a widely accepted certification method or a regulatory framework that provides business-critical incentives, progress and adoption of these technologies will face significant delays.”

They also call on the industry to “demystify emissions from well to tank” as part of efforts to certify the performance of LNG producers and bunker suppliers. Speaking about technology, they say further innovation is needed, as well as exploring combining technologies such as well generators and utilities to address the issue of fugitive emissions.

The technology they are reporting needs to be verified to demonstrate the reliability and accuracy of the solutions. They believe that integrating methane into regulatory schemes will support the feasibility of the emission reduction technology and support its development.

The authors point to the danger that failure to take appropriate steps could undermine the idea of ​​using LNG-powered ships as an alternative, despite its potential to reduce emissions and meet carbon dioxide reduction targets.