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options based on implementation timeframe and cost-effectiveness .
Wilson emphasizes that while she sees many companies continue to rely on Excel spreadsheets for forecasting and scenario analysis , that approach is much more tedious , time-consuming , and prone to error than software systems – particularly once you add a fiscal component to it .
4 . Carefully review source data and calculation methodologies
To estimate methane emissions effectively , Wilson recommends asking the following key questions :
• Are the most accurate data / calculation approaches used for specific operations ?
• Is real-world empirical data used when available ?
• How is actual measured / site-specific data compared to default factors ?
• Is actual or measured site-specific data available to inform future calculations ?
• Are sources not currently covered under EPA ’ s Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program categories also evaluated for a holistic approach to company decarbonization objectives ? Additionally , Wilson emphasized the need for operators to assess their applicability and compliance with New Source Performance Standards ( NSPS ) requirements . For affected facilities , companies should ensure they are following applicable requirements so they can minimize potential liabilities under the MERP .
She says companies should also evaluate any assets they operate that pre-date the NSPS rules and determine if there are any opportunities to retrofit equipment or implement work practices at those sites to reduce methane emissions below the corresponding MERP thresholds .
Wilson notes the supportive role of technology to integrate monitoring systems with environmental software to provide the best available data to enable such evaluations for strategic planning purposes .
5 . Establish a robust , up-to-date greenhouse gas monitoring plan
Wilson asserts that having a Greenhouse Gas ( GHG ) monitoring plan in place is not just a regulatory checkbox but a strategic investment in an organization ’ s future – particularly given the evolving nature of today ’ s regulatory environment .
A comprehensive GHG plan , according to Wilson , should clearly delineate source data ; roles and responsibilities ; quality assurance and calibration measures ; and document calculation methodologies , emission factors , and assumptions .
These documents should be strictly controlled and include clearly documented updates . They should also be subject to periodic reviews , she maintains . This level of rigor only serves to strengthen the credibility of these documents , should they ever be needed .
Wilson also underscores the critical nature of an auditability feature within GHG monitoring plans – making the case again for a strong data digitization strategy .
By shifting the way an organization fundamentally thinks about its approach to decarbonization and pursuing advanced analytics , it can not only meet regulatory compliance obligations and minimize liabilities under MERP , but also lead to an entirely new era of low-carbon economics . ■
William Palmer www . cority . com
William Palmer is Product Marketing Manager , Environmental and Safety at Cority . Cority empowers employees to reduce risks and enhance safety , health , and sustainability . With over 35 years of expertise , CorityOne integrates organizational data for efficiency , insights , decisions , and reporting . Trusted by 1,400 + organizations , Cority ’ s solutions support a better future .
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