TotalEnergies uses AUSEA technologies in Azerbaijan to detect methane emissions

TotalEnergies, a global energy company, has announced the signing of a strategic cooperation agreement with the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic (SOCAR) in Dubai. This significant collaboration is part of TotalEnergies' broader commitment to addressing methane emissions and promoting sustainable practices within the oil and gas industry.

The announcement was made during the "Eliminating Methane Emissions by 2030" roundtable, held in partnership with the COP28 Presidency, underlining the urgency of global efforts to combat climate change. TotalEnergies has entered into similar agreements with National Oil & Gas Companies, including Petrobras in Brazil and Sonangol in Angola, to conduct methane detection and measurement campaigns utilizing the innovative AUSEA technology.

Developed in collaboration with research and development partners, including CNRS and the University of Reims Champagne-Ardenne, AUSEA (Airborne Ultralight Spectrometer for Environmental Applications) is a cutting-edge gas analyzer mounted on drones. This technology enables the accurate detection and measurement of methane emissions from oil and gas facilities, making it a pioneering solution in the fight against climate change.

The collaboration with SOCAR in Azerbaijan reflects TotalEnergies' commitment to expanding the implementation of AUSEA beyond its own operations. The goal is to conduct drone-based emissions measurement campaigns on facilities operated by SOCAR, Petrobras, and Sonangol. This joint effort aims to identify, quantify, and reduce methane emissions, with a shared vision of achieving Zero Methane Emission by 2030.

TotalEnergies, having already achieved significant reductions in methane emissions from its operated sites, is pushing for further targets. The company aims to reduce methane emissions by an additional 50% by 2024 – a year ahead of schedule – and by 80% by 2030 compared to 2020 levels.

Patrick Pouyanné, Chairman and CEO of TotalEnergies, emphasized the importance of collaboration in the industry, stating, "The COP28 Presidency counts on the mobilization of all the major industrial sectors of the global economy to ensure the success of this conference. For the Oil & Gas industry, cutting methane emissions from operations is a priority as technologies are available."

TotalEnergies is actively promoting the United Nations Oil and Gas Methane Partnership (OGMP 2.0) framework and has maintained the OGMP Gold standard status for three consecutive years. The company's commitment to sustainability, evidenced by the deployment of AUSEA technology and collaborative agreements with international partners, underscores its dedication to driving positive environmental change within the energy sector.