CDPHE Announces Finalization of Methane Verification Rule Protocol

Great news!

Today CDPHE announced the finalization of the verification methane verification rule protocol. This protocol provides instructions for “Colorado upstream segment (production and pre-production) oil and gas owners or operators.” The main focus of this protocol is both the verification and reporting of methane emissions and calculated greenhouse gas intensities, making Colorado the first state in the nation to require direct measurement-based emissions reporting. This effectively takes the guesswork out of emissions estimates by utilizing direct measurement technology that is third-party vetted/validated and through transparent record-keeping & reporting through Division review and third-party audits.

Early last year, Signal joined the efforts of partners like the Environmental Defense Fund, to advocate for strong methane verification and rule-making. These efforts inspired a convening of over 40 public and private leaders (hosted by Signal & EDF) to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing the blossoming industry, and to advocate for the strong standards of this verification rule protocol. Following this event, discussions with the governor’s administration, and a lot of dedicated work from experts in the field, we believe the adoption of this protocol not only provides the path for Colorado to lower methane emissions in our state, but it also sets the stage for both national/international development and a burgeoning methane measurement industry.

This protocol is truly the first of its kind. With proper implementation and effective enforcement will continue to help Colorado meet its climate goals while providing an example on both an national and international scale.

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For more informational on the details of the protocol, you can visit CDPHE’s announcement here and view a copy of the protocol through the link embedded in said announcement.