Pipeline Agency’s Methane Leak Detection Plan Eyes 55% Reduction

The Biden administration proposed a rule Friday to improve the detection and repair of methane leaks from gas pipelines, updating decades-old standards.

The proposal, issued by the US Department of Transportation’s Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, requires pipeline operators to establish advanced leak detection programs aimed at finding and repairing all gas leaks.

Operators would be required to survey infrastructure more frequently and use commercially available, advanced leak detection technology—such as aerial or vehicle surveys, handheld detection devices, and continuous monitoring systems. PHMSA’s proposal offered flexibility for operators to use a range of approaches to meet a minimum performance ...