New Mexico’s oil and natural gas producers are actively utilizing and developing advanced technologies to reduce emissions. Here are some examples:

 

1. Drones 

Oil and natural gas producers use drones for remote monitoring and surveillance. By providing a 360-degree point of view over field operations, drones are uniquely effective at closely monitoring equipment to reduce emissions.

 

2. Planes

Planes help reduce emissions by quickly scanning extensive networks of pipelines from above. This helps producers detect leaks that otherwise would not be seen from the ground level. 

 

3. Helicopters

Similar to planes, helicopters give oil and natural gas producers an aerial point of view that offers quicker inspections over a wider range of territory than a ground-level inspection is able to capture. They also provide better control over the altitude of a pipeline inspection for leaks.

 

4. 24/7 Monitoring

24/7 monitoring systems offer oil and natural gas producers an extra layer of protection for wells and equipment by providing real-time updates on equipment temperature, pressure, and voltage.

 

5. Infrared Cameras

Infrared cameras are widely used throughout the oil and natural gas industry as a tool to help monitor tanks and pipelines. By rapidly detecting fumes not visible to the human eye, infrared cameras are an incredibly useful tool in reducing emissions.

 

6. Satellites

Satellites increase the efficiency of pipeline planning by utilizing 3D terrain models as well as predicting and monitoring environmental impact.

 

7. Sensor Networks

Researchers in the Permian Basin are developing a first-of-its-kind sensor network that would enable operators to more efficiently direct resources to a specific location. If successful, the project could provide a more affordable, efficient solution to reduce methane emissions.