Natural gas now contributes more to U.S. climate pollution than coal. Methane, the primary component of natural gas, has over 80 times the warming power of carbon dioxide over the first 20 years. The pipeline segments of the natural gas supply chain (gathering, transmission and storage, and local distribution) are estimated to emit nearly 5 million tons of methane each year (which translates to an equivalence of about 160 Million tons of CO2).
The PIPES Act of 2020, for the first time, requires operators to find and repair leaks even if they pose no risk of explosion, and must minimize intentional releases. The regulating agency, PHMSA, is often hamstrung by statutory rulemaking limitations, meaning without pressure, the promulgation of weak rules despite the strong substantive legislation is quite possible.
Prior to the PIPES Act of 2020, natural gas pipeline operators, representing the transportation segments of the natural gas supply chain, were able to leak and vent natural gas into the atmosphere as a regular course of business so long as there was no risk of explosion.
In 2023, PHMSA proposed a rule to implement PIPES Act leak detection and repair requirements. In response, the Pipeline Safety Trust prepared a guide to public comment for members of the public and advocacy groups. Additionally, PST submitted comments that highlighted key areas where the rule could improve.
Another critical component of PHMSA’s work to reduce methane emissions from pipelines is ensuring that all types of gas pipelines are regulated. In 2021, PHMSA finalized a rule which brought over 400,000 miles of gas gathering lines under regulation. This made it possible for nearly 70,000 miles of gas gathering pipelines to be subject to advanced leak detection.
Further Resources
- Sections 113 and 114 of the PIPES Act of 2020 (search for “Sec. 113. Leak Detection and Repair”) PST Memo outlining details of opportunities for change (2021)