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EDF: New Report Shows 22% Growth In PA's Oil & Gas Methane Emissions Mitigation Industry In 3 Years

On October 24, the Environmental Defense Fund released a new report detailing the growth of Pennsylvania’s oil and gas industry methane mitigation industry revealing a 22.2% increase in the number of methane mitigation companies in the state over the past three years.

The 2024 State of the Methane Mitigation Industry analysis was prepared by Datu Research and offers a look into industry trends, economic impacts, and the role of state regulations in fostering industry growth.

The report showcases how Pennsylvania has strengthened its position as a national leader in methane reduction efforts, contributing significantly to both environmental protection and economic growth.

The 2024 State of the Methane Mitigation Industry Report highlights the following key findings--

-- 33 companies now operate in Pennsylvania, up from 27 in 2021 and 20 in 2014, marking a 65% increase over the past decade.

-- The number of employee locations in the methane mitigation industry across the state has grown to 50 in 2024, a 38.9% increase since 2021. This includes major hubs in Pittsburgh, which hosts 11 facilities, and other concentrations in Bridgeville, Charleroi, Canonsburg, and Philadelphia.

Pennsylvania ranks among the top five states in the United States for methane mitigation activities, accounting for 8.5% of the total employee locations in this sector nationwide.

This growth is largely attributed to Pennsylvania’s state-level methane regulations, which have fostered a favorable business environment.

"The 2024 State of the Methane Mitigation Industry analysis highlights how Pennsylvania is becoming a hub for innovation in methane reduction,” said Marcy Lowe from Datu Research. “Our research shows that the state's commitment to cutting methane emissions is not only helping to fight climate change but is also driving economic growth, with more companies, more locations, and more jobs This is a prime example of how environmental stewardship and economic opportunity can thrive together, creating a brighter future for Pennsylvania."

The analysis also notes that Pennsylvania has added a new methane mitigation company headquarters each year for the past three years, bringing the total to eight companies headquartered in the state.

This growth reflects the industry’s confidence in Pennsylvania as a supportive location for innovation and business expansion.

"The analysis shows that Pennsylvania is leading the way in turning environmental challenges into economic opportunities,” said Allegheny County Executive Sara Innamorato. “Here in Allegheny County, we are proud to see how local innovation and commitment to reducing methane emissions are creating good-paying jobs and cleaner air for our residents. This report proves that by investing in cutting-edge technologies and fostering strong partnerships, we can protect our environment while building a stronger, more resilient economy. It’s a win-win for our communities and the future of our region."

Economic and Environmental Impact

“Pennsylvania’s commitment to reducing methane emissions is paying off, both in terms of job growth and environmental benefits,” said John Rutecki, Regulatory and Legislative Manager for Appalachia at Environmental Defense Fund. “This analysis underscores the state’s strategic role in the global effort to address methane emissions, particularly as the second-largest producer of natural gas in the country.”

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, and Pennsylvania’s robust industry for methane mitigation plays a critical role in reducing emissions from the oil and gas sector.

The report indicates that the state’s efforts have not only contributed to climate goals but also generated significant economic opportunities.

By encouraging the development and implementation of methane mitigation technologies, Pennsylvania is positioned to continue its leadership in the transition to a more sustainable energy future.

"The analysis provided by Datu underscores the impressive growth of the methane mitigation sector in Pennsylvania,” said Isaac Brown, executive director of the Center for Methane Emissions Solutions. “This growth is a testament to the industry's ability to adapt, innovate, and meet the rising demand for solutions that address methane emissions. As more companies invest in advanced technologies and expand their operations, we are seeing a direct impact on job creation and economic strength across the state. This report shows that with the right support, the methane mitigation industry can continue to play a critical role in driving both environmental and economic progress."

Click Here for a copy of Pennsylvania’s portion of the report.

PA Oil & Gas Industry Public Notice Dashboards:

-- PA Oil & Gas Weekly Compliance Dashboard - October 19 to 25 - DEP Abandoned Conventional Well Violations Top 814; Conventional Owner Ignores Order; Gas Leaks & Spills [PaEN]

-- PA Oil & Gas Industrial Facilities: Permit Notices, Opportunities To Comment - October 26 [PaEN]

-- DEP Posted 78 Pages Of Permit-Related Notices In October 26 PA Bulletin [PaEN]

Oil & Gas - National Debate

-- NY Post: Fracking Could Decide The Election In Pennsylvania And Nationwide

-- Wall Street Journal Guest Essay: Fracking Isn’t As Popular (Or Important) In Pennsylvania As You Think; The Truth For Residents Is More Complicated [PDF of Article] - By Colin Jerolmack, Author Of Up To Heaven And Down To Hell and Sean O’Leary, Ohio River Valley Institute

-- Fox News: Ex-President Vows To Slash Energy Costs, Lift LNG Gas Pause And ‘Frack, Frack, Frack’ At Pennsylvania Rally

Related Articles:

-- Environmental, Health Groups Submit Petition To Environmental Quality Board For More Protective Setbacks From Shale Gas Wells For Schools, Daycares, Hospitals, Buildings, Drinking Water Wells, Surface Water [PaEN]

-- Baker Hughes: PA Natural Gas Drilling Rig Count Down To 12, Lowest In More Than 17 Years; Community Support Drops; Big Hole In DEP Budget [PaEN]