Study shows reduction in methane emissions from natural gas pipelines

The controversy over natural gas emissions continues with a new study from Washington State University. The study found that methane emissions were 36% to 70% less than those estimated by EPA in 2011. Since natural gas is used in the production of almost all fuels, methane emissions from pipelines affect the carbon intensity of most fuel pathways. Methane emissions of course affect the carbon intensity of natural gas to CNG pathways. Natural gas also corresponds to about 5% to 30% of other fuel pathways including gasoline biodiesel and corn ethanol. Methane losses are incorporated into the natural gas sheet in the GREET model. The methane losses depend on the specific natural gas pathway.

Contact us to determine exactly how methane losses from pipeline production facilities, processing facilities and other sources are incorporated into the GREET model.