TotalEnergies and Oil India Limited (OIL) have formalized a Cooperation Agreement to implement advanced methane emissions detection and measurement campaigns at OIL’s facilities in India. These efforts will utilize TotalEnergies’ cutting-edge AUSEA technology, a pioneering tool developed to enhance the precision of greenhouse gas monitoring and abatement strategies.
Commitment to Decarbonization
This partnership aligns with OIL’s recent commitment to the Oil and Gas Decarbonization Charter (OGDC), a global industry initiative launched during COP28. Co-chaired by TotalEnergies’ CEO Patrick Pouyanné, the OGDC sets ambitious goals, including achieving net-zero operations by 2050, near-zero upstream methane emissions, and the elimination of routine flaring by 2030.
OGDC members pledge to measure, report, and share progress transparently. The initiative emphasizes collaboration among its signatories by fostering the exchange of best practices and leveraging cutting-edge technologies, such as AUSEA, to address the industry’s methane emissions challenges.
The Role of AUSEA Technology
TotalEnergies’ AUSEA technology, developed in collaboration with its R&D partners, represents a breakthrough in methane emissions detection. The system, mounted on drones, integrates a dual sensor capable of detecting methane and carbon dioxide emissions while identifying their specific sources.
This advanced technology provides unparalleled accuracy and accessibility, enabling operators to assess emissions even from hard-to-reach areas in both offshore and onshore facilities. AUSEA surpasses traditional detection techniques, offering a transformative tool for companies committed to reducing their environmental impact.
Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies, highlighted the significance of the collaboration:
“We are delighted that OIL has joined the growing list of national companies we are collaborating with by making our AUSEA technology available. This partnership underscores the momentum gained by the Oil & Gas Decarbonization Charter launched at COP28. Today, AUSEA is performing methane detection campaigns on every continent, contributing to OGDC’s mission of achieving near-zero upstream methane emissions by 2030.”
Strengthening India’s Environmental Commitments
Oil India’s leadership reaffirmed the company’s commitment to sustainable practices and global environmental goals.
Dr. Ranjit Rath, Chairman and Managing Director of Oil India Limited, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership:
“By joining our peers in the OGDC, OIL reiterates India’s commitment to the global community, while underscoring OIL’s dedication to reducing emissions. OIL is pleased to collaborate with TotalEnergies, an industry pioneer in methane emissions detection and measurements.”
Dr. Rath emphasized that this agreement reinforces India’s proactive role in global climate initiatives while showcasing OIL’s focus on adopting innovative technologies to improve its environmental performance.
Accelerating Global Methane Emission Reductions
The deployment of AUSEA technology in India is part of TotalEnergies’ broader strategy to promote sustainability within the oil and gas sector. By making its proprietary technology available to OGDC members and other industry players, TotalEnergies aims to accelerate the adoption of effective methane management practices globally.
Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, plays a critical role in global warming. Detecting and mitigating methane emissions is considered one of the most impactful steps toward achieving near-term climate targets. The advanced capabilities of AUSEA enable operators to identify and address emissions hotspots more effectively, paving the way for a significant reduction in overall greenhouse gas emissions.
A Step Towards a Sustainable Future
The collaboration between TotalEnergies and Oil India marks a pivotal moment in the oil and gas industry’s journey toward sustainability. By leveraging innovative technologies and fostering international partnerships, the two companies are setting an example for industry-wide efforts to combat climate change.
As methane detection campaigns get underway at OIL sites, the partnership is expected to drive tangible progress toward the OGDC’s decarbonization goals. Furthermore, this initiative reinforces the importance of cross-border collaboration in addressing global environmental challenges.
By aligning their efforts with both national and international decarbonization goals, TotalEnergies and Oil India are not only reducing emissions but also demonstrating the power of innovation and cooperation in creating a sustainable future for the energy sector.
