The Alternative Federal Methane Emissions Monitoring Program (Alt-FEMP) allows operators to apply for approval to utilize alternative approved detection technologies instead of ground staff scans using OGI or OVA to measure methane emissions.
Depending on how an operator conducts their LDAR program, the Alt-FEMP could be an opportunity to reduce costs increase efficiency. Part of the reason the AER is offering the Alt-FEMP option is to evaluate how effective advanced technologies are compared to traditional ground detection. The results from this pilot program will inform future technology approvals for LDAR programs in Alberta.
Alberta has approved Alt-FEMPs in the year 2020. The Saskatchewan and federal governments have a method for using Alt-FEMP. British Columbia is considering an Alternative-Fuel Fleet Emissions Management Program (Alt-FEMP) like Alberta’s.
A $17-million program funded by the Technology Innovation and Emissions Reduction (TIER) system called AMEP, Alberta Methane Emissions Program, supports Alberta’s methane emissions reduction efforts by enabling methane emissions reductions in Alberta’s oil and gas industry, while supporting government regulatory revisions, cutting industry costs, and assuring best practices regarding methane detection and management.
The AMEP is a multi-year funding program that focuses on 3 components: Alternative Fugitive Emissions Program (Alt-FEMP) Proposals, Data Management and Analytics and Technology Development Trials.
Fugitive Emissions Management Program
A Fugitive Emissions Management Program must be developed to reduce fugitive emissions and must be updated to reflect changes in operations. The Alberta Energy Regulator (AER) requires producers to prepare a FEMP since June 1, 2019. to report detection and repair of leaks, malfunctioning equipment, and surface casing vent flows is the foundation of fugitive emissions management. Regular surveys or screenings of sites for fugitive emissions are used in systematic detection.
These ALT FEMP programs have a time limit, and you may no longer qualify for funding. Green Chip Environmental can help support you with everything from field work to reporting and meeting regulations. Whether you require LDAR field services in order to be compliant for the 2023 reporting period (annual, bi-annaual, tri-annual) we can help!