Colorado approves methane emission limits for oil and gas operations

Flaring at a natural gas refinery in Colorado (Credit: Tim Hurst)

The Colorado government approved new rules on Feb. 23 that aim to detect and reduce methane emissions from statewide oil and gas operations, Reuters reported.

Under the new regulations, oil and natural gas companies will be required to check for leaks using infrared cameras during the production and transportation processes. The deal was initially proposed last fall with several Colorado energy producers.

Colorado Governor John Hickenlooper said the regulations were made possible through collaboration between citizen groups, government and energy producers. The Colorado Oil & Gas Association has expressed their support for the new rules.

Image: Flaring at a natural gas refinery in Colorado (Credit: Tim Hurst)