Addressing Methane Emissions Could Boost Global Gas Supply Amid Energy Crisis
Fixing mega-leaks of methane would hugely boost energy stock amid crisis, report says
The Guardian
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The International Energy Agency (IEA) reports that tackling methane emissions from the energy sector, which remain at near-record levels in 2025, could make 200 billion cubic meters of natural gas available annually. This is crucial as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East strains energy supplies.
- 01Methane emissions from the energy sector are near record highs as of 2025.
- 02Implementing methane abatement measures could unlock 200 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually.
- 03Countries with existing gas export capacity can quickly make nearly 15 billion cubic meters available to markets.
- 04Mega-leaks of methane have been identified globally, particularly in Turkmenistan and Texas.
- 05Efforts to manage and repair leaks are ongoing, but significant emissions persist.
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The International Energy Agency (IEA) has reported that methane emissions from the energy sector are at near-record levels in 2025. Addressing these emissions could unlock 200 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually, providing a critical boost to global energy supplies amid the ongoing crisis in the Middle East. The IEA's global methane tracker 2026 report highlights that if select countries with spare gas export capacity implement readily accessible abatement measures, they could quickly make nearly 15 billion cubic meters of gas available to international markets. Over the long term, effective measures could deliver nearly 100 billion cubic meters of gas each year, while eliminating non-emergency gas flaring could contribute an additional 100 billion cubic meters. Satellite analysis has identified significant methane leaks globally, with Turkmenistan's facilities topping the list. The report also notes alarming leaks in Texas, USA, where one facility was found to be leaking 5.5 tonnes of methane per hour. Despite claims from Turkmen officials about reducing leaks, the analysis indicates that substantial emissions continue to be a concern.
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Addressing methane emissions could significantly increase the availability of natural gas, which may help stabilize energy prices and supply for consumers and businesses.
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