SLB has secured approval from the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for its Methane LiDAR Camera as an alternative test method (ATM) for methane detection.
The technology was developed in line with the EPA’s OOOO standards, which focus on reducing fugitive methane emissions, a greenhouse gas with one of the highest short-term warming impacts.
Unlike conventional optical gas imaging (OGI) surveys, the LiDAR-based system enables autonomous measurements at component-level spatial resolution, allowing operators to distinguish between fugitive leaks and permitted emissions without the need for secondary checks.
With the EPA now listing the technology as an ATM, oil and gas producers have the option to adopt it as a stand-alone detection solution.
This approach is expected to streamline leak detection and compliance reporting processes by reducing the reliance on labour-intensive survey methods.
SLB Emissions business manager Ravi Peddibhotla said: “Advanced technology solutions are crucial to address the industry’s emissions of methane – a potent GHG with a near-term warming impact up to 80 times that of CO₂.
“Unlike other EPA-approved technologies, the Methane Lidar Camera’s spatial resolution allows it to identify emissions sources precisely, preventing false alarms from permitted methane vents.
“This will enable our US customers to improve their compliance and more efficiently mitigate fugitive emissions from their operations.”
The EPA has approved the Methane LiDAR Camera for all leak resolution thresholds under the regulation.
SLB said the system can operate both day and night and in the presence of other gases.
Its laser imaging capability visualises and quantifies emissions by recording duration, rate, location and timing.
The captured data can be accessed remotely via a digital platform, supporting leak detection, repair management and emissions reporting.
To date, SLB has deployed 100 Methane LiDAR Cameras across four continents.
The company also highlighted its continuing focus on digitalisation and automation, noting that last December it rolled out its Neuro autonomous geosteering technology designed to enhance drilling efficiency.
