Oil and Gas Sector Braces for Stricter EU Regulations on Methane Emissions: Teledyne FLIR Introduces New Optical Gas Imaging Cameras

Teledyne FLIR, a top global player in thermal imaging infrared cameras, has introduced new optical gas imaging cameras in response to the growing emphasis on quantifying and reporting emissions in the oil and gas sector. With stricter EU regulations on methane emissions expected to become mandatory, Teledyne FLIR’s cameras will help owner-operators in the industry identify and document gas emissions, including methane. The EU regulation specifies the frequency of surveys and different tiers for reporting emissions. It also sets the leak rate at 17g per hour. Moreover, the EU methane regulation references the Oil & Gas Methane Partnership 2.0 (OGMP 2.0), the flagship reporting and mitigation program of the United Nations Environment Programme. Teledyne FLIR’s cameras not only enable efficient reporting of emissions but also provide situational awareness through video imaging. The next evolution of the technology will involve transitioning from handheld to fixed-mount solutions for continuous monitoring. In a fixed-mount system, artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning will play a crucial role in replicating the expertise and intelligence of an operator. Benyon, Director of Sales EMEA at Teledyne FLIR, emphasized the importance of analytics and machine vision in mitigating false alarms and ensuring successful deployment. While the focus in the Middle East has traditionally been on adhering to US regulations, there is now interest in Europe’s regulatory practices, particularly in terms of concentration levels and monitoring approaches. The Middle East is yet to decide whether to align with US guidelines, adopt EU regulations, or pursue a hybrid approach.