EPA and natural gas companies come together to reduce emissions

The American Gas Association announced on Wednesday that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and 40 natural gas utility companies have come together to reduce emissions under the Natural Gas STAR Methane Challenge Program.

Under the program, member companies can set goals for reducing emissions, track progress and share successes with one another and the EPA. The 40 companies that signed up for the program serve 66 percent of U.S. natural gas customers.

“For more than two decades, natural gas utilities have worked productively with EPA to share best practices, helping to improve distribution operations and reduce emissions,” AGA Chairman Ralph LaRossa said. “EPA has recognized the success of our voluntary efforts by continuing to address emissions from distribution through voluntary actions rather than regulatory mandates. We look forward to working with EPA and our members on this ambitious voluntary program.” 

A similar program run by the EPA in 1993, entitled the Natural Gas STAR program, resulted in a total emissions reduction of 46.2 billion cubic feet. Participants are hopeful that the program, along with enhancements in energy technology, will allow natural gas utility companies to further reduce emissions.

Additional companies may join the initiative at any time and are encouraged to do so. Companies that have already joined include Ameren Illinois, Dominion and Puget Sound Energy.