PR015-241500-R01 Assessment of Macro-Scale Gas Pipeline Leak Detection Technologies

This report aims to identify and evaluate technologies capable of detecting and quantifying “super-emitter” methane leaks, defined as emissions greater than 100 kg/hr. These large-scale leaks are a significant contributor to total methane emissions and a growing focus for regulatory compliance. The primary goal of this project was to determine which technologies are best suited for macro-scale detection and measurement in hydrocarbon transmission and storage settings, and to develop a draft protocol for future field validation.

The study included a literature review to assess available technologies including drones, satellites, and large-area sensor arrays, and to examine existing test and validation frameworks. Market and operator surveys were distributed and analyzed to gather insights into current practices, technology readiness, and operational challenges in deploying existing methane leak detection technologies. Operator feedback played a key role in identifying gaps in both technology performance and validation protocols, guiding the development of a tailored evaluation framework for use in subsequent field testing.

The result of this program is a detailed report outlining high-potential technologies, their operational limits, and key specifications, such as quantification range, localization capability, detection sensitivity, uncertainty, and commercial maturity. A draft testing and evaluation protocol is included to support future field validation under real-world conditions, with a rough order of magnitude cost representing the cost associated with evaluating the highest potential technologies identified in this program. This work provides PRCI members with actionable guidance to select appropriate technologies, plan field testing, and ultimately improve leak detection accuracy, regulatory compliance, and greenhouse gas mitigation efforts.