Methane Emissions Reduction Program
{{Expansion depth limit exceeded|ProgramName=Methane Emissions Reduction Program |ProgramType=Program |OrgSponsor=Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management |TopOrganization=Department of Energy |CreationLegislation=Inflation Reduction Act |Purpose=To significantly reduce methane emissions from the oil and gas sector by providing financial and technical assistance for monitoring, reducing, and mitigating methane leaks, thereby supporting climate goals and public health.Expansion depth limit exceeded |Website=https://www.energy.gov/fecm/methane-emissions-reduction-program |ProgramStart=2024 |InitialFunding=$1.55 billionExpansion depth limit exceeded |Duration=Until funds are expended |Historic=No }} Methane Emissions Reduction Program (MERP) is designed to address methane emissions from the oil and natural gas sector by providing financial and technical support for leak detection, measurement, and mitigation. By focusing on reducing one of the most potent greenhouse gases, the program aims to contribute to climate change mitigation, improve air quality, and support the transition to cleaner energy practices.Expansion depth limit exceeded
{{Expansion depth limit exceeded|url=https://www.energy.gov/fecm/methane-emissions-reduction-program}}
Goals
- Reduce methane emissions from oil and gas operations.Expansion depth limit exceeded
- Promote the deployment of advanced methane detection and mitigation technologies.
- Support economic and environmental benefits for communities near oil and gas facilities.
Organization
MERP is managed by the Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management (FECM) within the U.S. Department of Energy in partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The program leverages both agencies' expertise to offer grants, technical assistance, and regulatory frameworks. Funding is sourced from the Inflation Reduction Act, with FECM overseeing the allocation and impact assessment.
The leader of the program holds the title/position of **Assistant Secretary for Fossil Energy and Carbon Management**.
Partners
History
Authorized by the **Inflation Reduction Act** in 2022, MERP was launched in 2024 to tackle the significant environmental impact of methane emissions. It builds on previous efforts but with a substantial increase in funding and scope. Key events include the announcement of initial funding opportunities in 2024, aimed at both large and small operators in the oil and gas sector to implement methane reduction strategies.
Funding
MERP was initially funded with $1.55 billion to support various initiatives aimed at reducing methane emissions.Expansion depth limit exceeded This includes grants, technical assistance, and support for research and development.
Implementation
Implementation involves:
- Competitive grants for projects focusing on methane leak reduction.
- Technical assistance to help companies deploy effective monitoring and mitigation technologies.
- Collaboration with EPA to align with regulatory standards and best practices.
The program will continue until the allocated funds are expended.
Related
External links
- https://www.energy.gov/fecm/methane-emissions-reduction-program
- wikipedia:Methane Emissions Reduction Program
Social media
- No specific social media accounts for MERP; follow the Department of Energy for updates.
