Utility takes a three-pronged approach to methane emissions reduction
RICHMOND—Dominion Energy Inc. plans to sharply reduce the company’s methane emissions by 2030, putting Dominion among an expanding group of utilities launching future-focused climate initiatives.
The company’s initiative to reduce emissions by 50 percent over the next decade will prevent more than 430,000 metric tons of methane from entering the atmosphere. This step builds on the company’s progress in reducing methane emissions over the last 10 years and the advances it is making in implementing renewable energy.
Dominion Energy is expecting to realize reductions systemwide—from production and storage to transmission and distribution—by taking a three-pronged approach to achieving its reduction goals: Reducing or eliminating gas venting during planned maintenance and inspections; replacing older equipment systemwide with new, low-emission equipment; and expanding leak-detection and repair programs.
A primary focus of the utility’s gas-venting reduction solution is the use of innovative technologies, such as the Zero Emission Vacuum and Compressor, to capture methane prior to maintenance or inspection so it can be recycled within the system. After a limited pilot run of the technology, the utility purchased 16 ZEVAC® units for widespread use across its distribution and transmission pipelines earlier this year. “Thanks to advances in technology and innovations in our operating procedures, we can capture methane on a much larger scale than we could have 10 years ago,” noted Mark Webb, the company’s chief innovation officer.
In addition, Dominion will be replacing older equipment with new, low-emission equipment. The company also is replacing older bare-steel pipe, cast-iron pipe, valves, fittings, joints and seals to reduce or even eliminate them as emissions sources. In terms of leak detection, Dominion Energy has made significant progress in detecting leaks with infrared cameras. This program will be expanded to detect and repair these minor emissions sources.
“We recognize we need to do more to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” acknowledged Diane Leopold, president and CEO of Dominion Energy’s Gas Infrastructure Group. “We’ve made significant progress, but we’re determined to go much further. With this initiative, we are transforming the way we do business to build a more sustainable future for the planet, our customers and our industry.”