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Satellite data on methane emissions reveal new insights in Turkmenistan

A new collection of satellite images from Methane SAT revealed significant variations in methane emissions across 12 oil and gas-producing regions worldwide, including two sites in Turkmenistan. The findings were published on the MethaneSAT website.

One of the key findings showed that the South Caspian Basin in Turkmenistan emits approximately 441 tonnes of methane per hour, of which 418 tonnes are linked to oil and gas operations. Emissions were also tracked in the Amu Darya Basin, where 150 tonnes of methane per hour are observed, of which 90 tonnes originate from oil and gas activities.

However, there are significant variations in emissions over time. For example, in the Amu Darya Basin, 203 tonnes of methane were estimated to be emitted per hour on July 5, 2024. However, later in the year the observed hourly emissions were 96 tonnes per hour, with the highest-emission sites shifting slightly to different locations.

These new insights indicate that methane is not emitted at the same rate throughout the year, even if it is emitted in the same region, but there are large differences day-to-day. Considering very high methane emissions from oil and gas fields, satellite tracking is essential to help us understand these emissions better, and develop more targeted strategies to reduce them.

Figure 1. Satellite imagery of methane emissions in the Amu Darya Basin in October, 2024. Source: MethaneSAT

The article highlights that smaller and more dispersed sources of methane emissions are often missed by satellites, even though together they contribute a significant share of total emissions. Repeated satellite observations will provide deeper insights, helping to identify and prioritize areas with the most consistent and highest emissions.

The findings highlight the importance of regular satellite-based monitoring of methane emissions. Regular tracking of methane emissions throughout the year will help to identify the areas with the most severe problems. More frequent and accurate data will inform both companies and governments and enable them to focus their efforts on sites where methane leaks happen the most. More refined and frequent data will also help to develop better strategies for methane emission reductions.