Celebrating progress on flaring and methane reduction in Turkmenistan

Strategically positioned between East and West, Turkmenistan is endowed with abundant hydrocarbon reserves and significant renewable energy potential. To strengthen its economy and actively engage in the energy transition, Turkmenistan has a significant opportunity to accelerate recent progress in reducing emissions from flaring and methane. There is significant potential in the short term (yielding significant climate benefits) to reduce waste and monetise this gas, whether for domestic consumption or export, or electricity generation. In the longer term, Turkmenistan could lead energy transition initiatives, including exporting power to Europe or neighbouring countries via cable, monetising sulphur, becoming a regional hub for carbon capture and storage (CCS), expanding wind and solar energy, and building export industries around green hydrogen and other green products – and more.

Recent research from Capterio and Kayrros highlights encouraging progress in recent months. As we approach COP29 in Baku, now is the time to not only reflect on these developments but also celebrate the achievements.

Take flaring as an example: In Turkmenistan, more than 80 flares burn 1.3 billion cubic metres of gas per year (according to the World Bank). Capterio’s FlareIntel Pro technology platform, which tracks flares daily at every asset, offers a powerful tool that helps (a) to improve visibility, (b) to drive operational excellence, and (c)  to prioritise investment opportunities.

We are pleased to see continued progress at the Darvaza Crater (first highlighted by Capterio in April 2024), where flaring has significantly reduced compared to a year ago, thanks to the leadership and recent interventions of Turkmengas. Our satellite analytics confirm that flaring at Darvaza has decreased by approximately 1 million standard cubic feet per day.  This recovered gas could enhance regional gas supplies and generate a few megawatts of electricity, whilst also reducing emissions of CO2 and methane. Looking ahead, there are further opportunities to develop flare capture projects, as shown on the map.  This is especially important for operators that have endorsed to the World Bank’s “Zero Routine Flaring” (by 2030) programme.

Above: chart from Capterio’s FlareIntel Pro tool highlighting the significant reduction in flaring at the Darvaza Crater since August 2023, driven by Turkmengaz’s interventions.

Now consider methane, emitted from unlit flares, incomplete combustion, vents, and leaks. Since methane is a highly potent greenhouse gas, making reductions here is imperative for the climate.  The International Energy Agency’s Global Methane Tracker estimates that methane emissions from venting and leaks amount to 5 million tonnes annually (7.5 BCM/a), equivalent to 150–420 million tonnes of CO2-equivalent emissions annually. A recent Kayrros report notes that Turkmenistan is one of the few countries to have reduced its emissions (by roughly 10%) since signing the Global Methane Pledge three years ago (see chart). There are clear opportunities to accelerate this progress, helped in part by the UN’s International Methane Emissions Observatory (IMEO) programme. Unlit flares and vents should be a priority for short-term action, as burning methane to produce CO2 has far less impact on the climate than releasing methane itself. This will become even more critical when the EU introduces its methane performance standard on imported gas, and reductions could potentially be monetised through international carbon markets.

Above: chart from Kayrros report highlighting progress (or lack of) by country.  Turkmenistan and Australia alone show material reductions.

As the world accelerates its efforts to combat climate change, Turkmenistan shines here as a beacon of inspiration. With COP29 set to take place in this region, it is an opportune moment to recognise recent progress. These advancements are a testament to the leadership and dedication of both national leaders, international partners and operators on the ground. Now, more than ever, we must not only applaud their progress but also provide the support and investment needed to ensure we can achieve even greater outcomes—together.

For more information about how Capterio’s helps companies to reduce flaring, create value, improve energy security and accelerate the transition, please see www.capterio.com.