How drones help oil and gas operators achieve OGMP 2.0 methane compliance

As pressure mounts to reduce methane emissions, the OGMP 2.0 framework – led by the UN Environment Programme – has become a critical standard in the oil and gas sector. This initiative calls for accurate, source-level methane quantification and consistent, verifiable reporting across all assets.

Meeting OGMP 2.0’s highest standards (Level 5) is especially demanding. It’s not enough to estimate emissions; operators must pinpoint and measure leaks from individual components like tanks, valves, and flares. Traditional methods struggle here – drone technology offers a faster, safer, and more precise solution.

Why drones are vital for OGMP 2.0 reporting

Equipped with advanced methane detection sensors, drones can map emissions in real time, even in hard-to-reach areas. Payloads like laser spectrometers and miniaturized flux sensors deliver source-level quantification that manual inspections often can’t match.

Drones also transform methane monitoring from spot checks into structured, auditable workflows. Beyond leak detection, they enable full-scale emissions modeling – capturing gas concentrations, flow rates, and emission volumes, aligned with OGMP 2.0 requirements.

Enabling consistent, transparent reporting

A key goal of OGMP 2.0 is to promote repeatable, transparent, and auditable emissions data. Drones support this through:

• Standardized flight paths and sensor settings

• Digital logs and timestamped survey records

• Cloud integration for tracking trends and compiling reports

These capabilities reduce human error, enhance safety, and allow operators to demonstrate ongoing emissions reductions – crucial for both compliance and stakeholder confidence.

From risk reduction to operational leadership

Deploying drones for methane monitoring isn't just about ticking regulatory boxes. It reflects a strategic commitment to safety, sustainability, and performance. With fewer manual inspections needed, worker exposure drops and operational efficiency rises.

As OGMP 2.0 becomes the global benchmark for methane accountability, drone-based monitoring is a smart, future-ready investment. For companies aiming to lead in environmental responsibility, it’s an essential step forward.