New EU Methane Regulation: Detailed Frequency Requirements for the Gas Industry in Article 14

With the implementation of the new EU Methane Regulation, operators in the gas industry face a range of new challenges. In particular, the requirements set out in Article 14 regarding the frequencies of Leak Detection and Repair (LDAR) measures introduce complex and specific obligations. Methane emissions present an environmental problem, and the regulation aims to significantly reduce these emissions. Therefore, operators must adjust their existing processes to meet the new requirements.

Significance of the New Inspection Frequencies

The frequency of inspections varies depending on the type of facility, material, and design pressure. In this blog article, we provide an overview of the inspection frequencies for various applications, including underground storage facilities and distribution and transmission network operators.

LDAR Inspections Are Divided into Two Main Categories

• LDAR Type 1: These inspections are conducted more frequently and aim to detect larger leaks (at least 7000 ppm or 17 g/h) early (Article 1, Number 26).
• ‍LDAR Type 2: These inspections occur at longer intervals and focus on more comprehensive and complex investigations to detect even smaller leaks (500 ppm or 1 g/h, or 1000 ppm or 5 g/h for underground components) (Article 1, Number 27).

Note: LDAR Type 1 measurements can be replaced by Type 2 measurements.

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Frequencies for Operators Not Classified as Distribution and Transmission Networks

For all above-ground and underground components, except distribution and transmission networks, LDAR inspections are carried out at least at the following intervals:

Compressor stations, underground storage, LNG facilities, and gas pressure regulation and measurement facilities: For Type 1 inspections, the interval is 4 months, and for Type 2 inspections, it extends to 8 months.

Valve stations: Here, the interval varies between 9 months for Type 1 and 18 months for Type 2 (Annex 1, Part 1, Number 1).

Frequencies for Distribution and Transmission Networks

Specific requirements apply to distribution and transmission networks, taking into account the design pressure of the facilities and materials.

Facilities with Over 16 Bar Design Pressure

If the design pressure exceeds 16 bar, compressor stations and gas pressure regulation and measurement facilities must be inspected every 4 months (Type 1) and every 8 months (Type 2). Valve stations, on the other hand, have longer intervals at this pressure: 9 months for Type 1 and 18 months for Type 2 (Annex 1, Part 1, Number 2).

Gas Pressure Regulation and Measurement Facilities with a Design Pressure of 16 Bar or Less

If the design pressure does not exceed 16 bar, a Type 1 measurement is not required. For these facilities, only a Type 2 measurement is required every 9 months. Valve stations with a design pressure of 16 bar or less must be inspected with a Type 2 measurement every 21 months.

Frequencies for Pipelines

The inspection frequencies for pipelines depend on the materials used. For example, cast iron or asbestos pipelines with a design pressure exceeding 16 bar require more frequent inspections. In contrast, lower pressures or different material types result in longer inspection intervals, necessitating adjustments to maintenance schedules (Annex 1, Part 1, Number 2). The exact frequencies can be found in the table.

Conclusion

The EU Methane Regulation presents new challenges for the gas industry, particularly due to the inspection frequencies outlined in Article 14. Operators must strategically adjust their inspection plans and personnel capacities to meet the varying requirements. The regulation demands a precise and structured approach, which not only ensures compliance but also contributes to long-term operational safety and environmental protection.

atmio understands the complexity of these tasks and offers support to help you efficiently meet the new regulations. For more information, we warmly invite you to our upcoming event on September 5th in Etzel. Click here to register.

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