OMB Control No. 2060-0328 

Expires 07/31/2011 

Natural Gas STAR 

International 

 

Annual Report 

2010

Company Information 

Company Name:

Contact:

Title:

Address:

City, State/Province:

Country:

Telephone:

Fax:

E-mail:

This report contains emissions reductions data for [please specify 

country and business unit(s)]*: 

 

 

Period of time covered by report: 

From: __________ To: __________ 

International Annual Report Summary 

Please provide information on the technologies and practices your company implemented and submit a report page for only 

those activities. 

This package includes the following: 

 Five Annual Reporting forms (please make additional copies, if necessary) 

 Additional Program Accomplishments form 

 Appendices including proposed methane emissions reduction technologies and conversion factors 

Signature: Date: 

*Please submit a separate annual reporting form for each country for which you are reporting emissions reductions.

In addition to reporting methane emissions reductions, you are welcome to include other information about your company’s 

participation in Natural Gas STAR International in the “Additional Program Accomplishments” section of this form. Natural 

Gas STAR International will use any information entered in this section to recognize the efforts and accomplishments of 

outstanding partners. 

EPA Form No. 5900-107 
Natural Gas STAR International 

Annual Report 

OMB Control No. 2060-0328 

Expires 07/31/2011 

Methane Emission Reduction Technologies & Practices

Current Year Activities 

A. Facility/location identifier information:

 

B. Activity description: Please provide a separate reporting form for each technology or practice implemented. If reporting a DI&M 

activity, please use a separate page for each location/facility surveyed. 

Please specify the technology or practice that was implemented 

(choose from the list in the Appendix or describe your own): 

Please describe how your company implemented this activity 

(including location or facility where implemented): 

 

C. Industry Sector (please indicate in which industry sector you implemented this activity):

 Production (from underground to wellhead) 

 Gathering and Processing (from gathering lines and processing plant to 

the point gas transfers to transmission pipelines)

 Transmission (transmission lines: from the point gas transfers to a 

transmission pipeline to the point gas transfers to city gate stations, 

including compressor stations along the transmission line(s)) 

 Distribution (gate stations to customer connections) 

D. Level of Implementation (check one): E. Are emissions reductions a one-year reduction or a multiyear reduction? One-year Multi-year 

If Multi-year: 

 Partner will report this activity once and let EPA 

automatically calculate future emission reductions based on 

sunset date duration*. 

Partner will report this activity annually up to allowed sunset 

date. 

 Number of units installed: 

 Frequency of practice: 

 units 

times/year

F. Methane emissions reduction: 

 

 Mcf *Because the implementation of some technologies reduces emissions for 

multiple years, Natural Gas STAR allows certain activities to count towards a 

company’s emission reductions beyond the initial year of implementation. Natural 

Gas STAR designates the maximum length of time that these reductions may 

accrue as “sunset dates.” Appendix A lists these sunset dates. Companies can 

report the corresponding methane emission reductions each year up to the 

allowable sunset date. Or, companies may wish to report reductions only once for 

the implementation year, and have EPA automatically apply the sunset date and 

count those emissions for the allowable number of years.

Please identify the basis for the emissions reduction estimate. If needed, attach 

calculations separately. 

 Actual field measurement 

 Calculation using manufacturer specifications/other source 

 Other (Please specify) G. Cost summary: 

 Estimated cost of implementing this activity (including 

 equipment and labor): U.S. $ 

H. Total value of gas saved or other economic benefits (please 

describe): 

 U.S. $ 

Total value of gas saved (in U.S. Dollars) = Methane emissions 

reduction (in Mcf) x Gas value (in U.S. $/Mcf) 

I. To what extent do you expect to implement this activity next 

year? 

 

Additional Comments: 

Previous Years' Activities 

Use the table below to report any past implementation of this technology or practice, but not previously reported to Natural Gas STAR 

International.

Year Frequency of Activity or # of 

Installations 

Total Cost of Activity

(incl. equipment and labor) (U.S. $) 

Estimated Reductions 

(Mcf/yr) 

Value of 

Gas Saved 

(U.S. $) 

 

 

Comments/Additional Benefits: Please describe any additional economic, operational, environmental, or safety benefits 

achieved by implementing this technology or practice. Use the back of the page for additional space if needed.
Natural Gas STAR International 

Annual Report 

OMB Control No. 2060-0328 

Expires 07/31/2011 

Methane Emission Reduction Technologies & Practices

Current Year Activities 

A. Facility/location identifier information:

 

B. Activity description: Please provide a separate reporting form for each technology or practice implemented. If reporting a DI&M 

activity, please use a separate page for each location/facility surveyed. 

Please specify the technology or practice that was implemented 

(choose from the list in the Appendix or describe your own): 

Please describe how your company implemented this activity 

(including location or facility where implemented): 

 

C. Industry Sector (please indicate in which industry sector you implemented this activity):

 Production (from underground to wellhead) 

 Gathering and Processing (from gathering lines and processing plant to 

the point gas transfers to transmission pipelines)

 Transmission (transmission lines: from the point gas transfers to a 

transmission pipeline to the point gas transfers to city gate stations, 

including compressor stations along the transmission line(s)) 

 Distribution (gate stations to customer connections) 

D. Level of Implementation (check one): E. Are emissions reductions a one-year reduction or a multiyear reduction? One-year Multi-year 

If Multi-year: 

 Partner will report this activity once and let EPA 

automatically calculate future emission reductions based on 

sunset date duration*. 

Partner will report this activity annually up to allowed sunset 

date. 

 Number of units installed: 

 Frequency of practice: 

 units 

times/year

F. Methane emissions reduction: 

 

 Mcf *Because the implementation of some technologies reduces emissions for 

multiple years, Natural Gas STAR allows certain activities to count towards a 

company’s emission reductions beyond the initial year of implementation. Natural 

Gas STAR designates the maximum length of time that these reductions may 

accrue as “sunset dates.” Appendix A lists these sunset dates. Companies can 

report the corresponding methane emission reductions each year up to the 

allowable sunset date. Or, companies may wish to report reductions only once for 

the implementation year, and have EPA automatically apply the sunset date and 

count those emissions for the allowable number of years.

Please identify the basis for the emissions reduction estimate. If needed, attach 

calculations separately. 

 Actual field measurement 

 Calculation using manufacturer specifications/other source 

 Other (Please specify) G. Cost summary: 

 Estimated cost of implementing this activity (including 

 equipment and labor): U.S. $ 

H. Total value of gas saved or other economic benefits (please 

describe): 

 U.S. $ 

Total value of gas saved (in U.S. Dollars) = Methane emissions 

reduction (in Mcf) x Gas value (in U.S. $/Mcf) 

I. To what extent do you expect to implement this activity next 

year? 

 

Additional Comments: 

Previous Years' Activities 

Use the table below to report any past implementation of this technology or practice, but not previously reported to Natural Gas STAR 

International.

Year Frequency of Activity or # of 

Installations 

Total Cost of Activity

(incl. equipment and labor) (U.S. $) 

Estimated Reductions 

(Mcf/yr) 

Value of 

Gas Saved 

(U.S. $) 

 

 

Comments/Additional Benefits: Please describe any additional economic, operational, environmental, or safety benefits 

achieved by implementing this technology or practice. Use the back of the page for additional space if needed.
Natural Gas STAR International 

Annual Report 

OMB Control No. 2060-0328 

Expires 07/31/2011 

Methane Emission Reduction Technologies & Practices

Current Year Activities 

A. Facility/location identifier information:

 

B. Activity description: Please provide a separate reporting form for each technology or practice implemented. If reporting a DI&M 

activity, please use a separate page for each location/facility surveyed. 

Please specify the technology or practice that was implemented 

(choose from the list in the Appendix or describe your own): 

Please describe how your company implemented this activity 

(including location or facility where implemented): 

 

C. Industry Sector (please indicate in which industry sector you implemented this activity):

 Production (from underground to wellhead) 

 Gathering and Processing (from gathering lines and processing plant to 

the point gas transfers to transmission pipelines)

 Transmission (transmission lines: from the point gas transfers to a 

transmission pipeline to the point gas transfers to city gate stations, 

including compressor stations along the transmission line(s)) 

 Distribution (gate stations to customer connections) 

D. Level of Implementation (check one): E. Are emissions reductions a one-year reduction or a multiyear reduction? One-year Multi-year 

If Multi-year: 

 Partner will report this activity once and let EPA 

automatically calculate future emission reductions based on 

sunset date duration*. 

Partner will report this activity annually up to allowed sunset 

date. 

 Number of units installed: 

 Frequency of practice: 

 units 

times/year

F. Methane emissions reduction: 

 

 Mcf *Because the implementation of some technologies reduces emissions for 

multiple years, Natural Gas STAR allows certain activities to count towards a 

company’s emission reductions beyond the initial year of implementation. Natural 

Gas STAR designates the maximum length of time that these reductions may 

accrue as “sunset dates.” Appendix A lists these sunset dates. Companies can 

report the corresponding methane emission reductions each year up to the 

allowable sunset date. Or, companies may wish to report reductions only once for 

the implementation year, and have EPA automatically apply the sunset date and 

count those emissions for the allowable number of years.

Please identify the basis for the emissions reduction estimate. If needed, attach 

calculations separately. 

 Actual field measurement 

 Calculation using manufacturer specifications/other source 

 Other (Please specify) G. Cost summary: 

 Estimated cost of implementing this activity (including 

 equipment and labor): U.S. $ 

H. Total value of gas saved or other economic benefits (please 

describe): 

 U.S. $ 

Total value of gas saved (in U.S. Dollars) = Methane emissions 

reduction (in Mcf) x Gas value (in U.S. $/Mcf) 

I. To what extent do you expect to implement this activity next 

year? 

 

Additional Comments: 

Previous Years' Activities 

Use the table below to report any past implementation of this technology or practice, but not previously reported to Natural Gas STAR 

International.

Year Frequency of Activity or # of 

Installations 

Total Cost of Activity

(incl. equipment and labor) (U.S. $) 

Estimated Reductions 

(Mcf/yr) 

Value of 

Gas Saved 

(U.S. $) 

 

 

Comments/Additional Benefits: Please describe any additional economic, operational, environmental, or safety benefits 

achieved by implementing this technology or practice. Use the back of the page for additional space if needed.
Natural Gas STAR International 

Annual Report 

OMB Control No. 2060-0328 

Expires 07/31/2011 

Methane Emission Reduction Technologies & Practices

Current Year Activities 

A. Facility/location identifier information:

 

B. Activity description: Please provide a separate reporting form for each technology or practice implemented. If reporting a DI&M 

activity, please use a separate page for each location/facility surveyed. 

Please specify the technology or practice that was implemented 

(choose from the list in the Appendix or describe your own): 

Please describe how your company implemented this activity 

(including location or facility where implemented): 

 

C. Industry Sector (please indicate in which industry sector you implemented this activity):

 Production (from underground to wellhead) 

 Gathering and Processing (from gathering lines and processing plant to 

the point gas transfers to transmission pipelines)

 Transmission (transmission lines: from the point gas transfers to a 

transmission pipeline to the point gas transfers to city gate stations, 

including compressor stations along the transmission line(s)) 

 Distribution (gate stations to customer connections) 

D. Level of Implementation (check one): E. Are emissions reductions a one-year reduction or a multiyear reduction? One-year Multi-year 

If Multi-year: 

 Partner will report this activity once and let EPA 

automatically calculate future emission reductions based on 

sunset date duration*. 

Partner will report this activity annually up to allowed sunset 

date. 

 Number of units installed: 

 Frequency of practice: 

 units 

times/year

F. Methane emissions reduction: 

 

 Mcf *Because the implementation of some technologies reduces emissions for 

multiple years, Natural Gas STAR allows certain activities to count towards a 

company’s emission reductions beyond the initial year of implementation. Natural 

Gas STAR designates the maximum length of time that these reductions may 

accrue as “sunset dates.” Appendix A lists these sunset dates. Companies can 

report the corresponding methane emission reductions each year up to the 

allowable sunset date. Or, companies may wish to report reductions only once for 

the implementation year, and have EPA automatically apply the sunset date and 

count those emissions for the allowable number of years. 

Please identify the basis for the emissions reduction estimate. If needed, attach 

calculations separately. 

 Actual field measurement 

 Calculation using manufacturer specifications/other source 

 Other (Please specify) G. Cost summary: 

 Estimated cost of implementing this activity (including 

 equipment and labor): U.S. $ 

H. Total value of gas saved or other economic benefits (please 

describe): 

 U.S. $ 

Total value of gas saved (in U.S. Dollars) = Methane emissions 

reduction (in Mcf) x Gas value (in U.S. $/Mcf) 

I. To what extent do you expect to implement this activity next 

year? 

 

Additional Comments: 

Previous Years' Activities 

Use the table below to report any past implementation of this technology or practice, but not previously reported to Natural Gas STAR 

International.

Year Frequency of Activity or # of 

Installations 

Total Cost of Activity

(incl. equipment and labor) (U.S. $) 

Estimated Reductions 

(Mcf/yr) 

Value of 

Gas Saved 

(U.S. $) 

 

 

Comments/Additional Benefits: Please describe any additional economic, operational, environmental, or safety benefits 

achieved by implementing this technology or practice. Use the back of the page for additional space if needed.
Natural Gas STAR International 

Annual Report 

OMB Control No. 2060-0328 

Expires 07/31/2011 

Methane Emission Reduction Technologies & Practices

Current Year Activities 

A. Facility/location identifier information:

 

B. Activity description: Please provide a separate reporting form for each technology or practice implemented. If reporting a DI&M 

activity, please use a separate page for each location/facility surveyed. 

Please specify the technology or practice that was implemented 

(choose from the list in the Appendix or describe your own): 

Please describe how your company implemented this activity 

(including location or facility where implemented): 

 

C. Industry Sector (please indicate in which industry sector you implemented this activity):

 Production (from underground to wellhead) 

 Gathering and Processing (from gathering lines and processing plant to 

the point gas transfers to transmission pipelines)

 Transmission (transmission lines: from the point gas transfers to a 

transmission pipeline to the point gas transfers to city gate stations, 

including compressor stations along the transmission line(s)) 

 Distribution (gate stations to customer connections) 

D. Level of Implementation (check one): E. Are emissions reductions a one-year reduction or a multiyear reduction? One-year Multi-year 

If Multi-year: 

 Partner will report this activity once and let EPA 

automatically calculate future emission reductions based on 

sunset date duration*. 

Partner will report this activity annually up to allowed sunset 

date. 

 Number of units installed: 

 Frequency of practice: 

 units 

times/year

F. Methane emissions reduction: 

 

 Mcf *Because the implementation of some technologies reduces emissions for 

multiple years, Natural Gas STAR allows certain activities to count towards a 

company’s emission reductions beyond the initial year of implementation. Natural 

Gas STAR designates the maximum length of time that these reductions may 

accrue as “sunset dates.” Appendix A lists these sunset dates. Companies can 

report the corresponding methane emission reductions each year up to the 

allowable sunset date. Or, companies may wish to report reductions only once for 

the implementation year, and have EPA automatically apply the sunset date and 

count those emissions for the allowable number of years. 

Please identify the basis for the emissions reduction estimate. If needed, attach 

calculations separately. 

 Actual field measurement 

 Calculation using manufacturer specifications/other source 

 Other (Please specify) G. Cost summary: 

 Estimated cost of implementing this activity (including 

 equipment and labor): U.S. $ 

H. Total value of gas saved or other economic benefits (please 

describe): 

 U.S. $ 

Total value of gas saved (in U.S. Dollars) = Methane emissions 

reduction (in Mcf) x Gas value (in U.S. $/Mcf) 

I. To what extent do you expect to implement this activity next 

year? 

 

Additional Comments: 

Previous Years' Activities 

Use the table below to report any past implementation of this technology or practice, but not previously reported to Natural Gas STAR 

International.

Year Frequency of Activity or # of 

Installations 

Total Cost of Activity

(incl. equipment and labor) (U.S. $) 

Estimated Reductions 

(Mcf/yr) 

Value of 

Gas Saved 

(U.S. $) 

 

 

Comments/Additional Benefits: Please describe any additional economic, operational, environmental, or safety benefits 

achieved by implementing this technology or practice. Use the back of the page for additional space if needed.
Natural Gas STAR International 

Annual Report 

OMB Control No. 2060-0328 

Expires 07/31/2011 

Additional Program Accomplishments 

The Natural Gas STAR International Program will use any information entered here to recognize the efforts and 

achievements of outstanding partners. 

Please include any additional information you would like to share about your company’s participation in Natural Gas 

STAR International. Examples may include: 

 Activities to strengthen your program (e.g., training/education, innovative technologies or activities, pilot 

projects, employee incentive programs). 

 Efforts to communicate your participation and successes (e.g., internal newsletters, press releases, 

company website). 

 Participation in Natural Gas STAR International program activities (e.g., contributions to case studies, 

presentation at workshops). 

Additional Accomplishments: 

(Please use the back of the page for additional space if needed.)

 
Natural Gas STAR International 

Annual Report 

OMB Control No. 2060-0328 

Expires 07/31/2011 

Appendix A-1 

Methane Emission Reduction Technologies & Practices— 

Production Sector 

The list below describes a variety of methane emission reduction technologies that Natural Gas STAR partners in the production sector 

have implemented and reported to Natural Gas STAR. You may use this list as a guide when completing your annual report. Sunset 

dates (i.e., the length of time a technology or practice can continue to accrue emission reductions after implemented) are one 

year in duration unless otherwise noted in parentheses. An asterisk (*) indicates that a technical document related to the 

technology or practice is available online at epa.gov/gasstar/tools/recommended.html.

Compressors/Engines 

 Automate compressor systems operation to reduce 

venting* 

 Catalytic converter installation (10 years) 

 Convert engine starting to nitrogen and/or CO2 rich 

gas (10 years)* 

 Convert to low pressure compressor starters 

(10 years) 

 Eliminate unnecessary equipment and/or systems* 

 Increase compression capacity to reduce 

venting/flaring 

 Install automated air/fuel ratio control systems (10 

years)* 

 Install electric compressors (10 years)* 

 Install electric motors (10 years) 

 Install electric starters (10 years)* 

 Install lean burn compressor (10 years) 

 Lower compressor purge pressure for shutdown* 

 Perform gas recovery using slipstream (10 years) 

 Redesign blowdown/alter ESD practices* 

 Reduce emissions when taking compressors offline* 

 Replace compressor rod packing systems* 

 Replace gas starters with air (10 years)* 

 Replace ignition/reduce false starts* 

 Turbine fuel use optimization 

Dehydrators 

 Install condensers on glycol dehydrators (10 years) 

 Install/convert gas-driven chemical pumps to electric, 

mechanical, or solar pumps (10 years)* 

 Install desiccant dehydrator (10 years)* 

 Install flash tank separators on glycol dehydrators 

(10 years)* 

 Reduce glycol circulation rates in dehydrators* 

 Reroute dehy./tank vents to flare or station suction 

(10 years)* 

 Reroute glycol skimmer gas* 

 Shutdown glycol dehydrator stripping gas in winter 

 Use rich glycol in glycol pumps 

Directed Inspection and Maintenance 

 DI&M at compressor stations* 

 DI&M: leak detection using IR camera/optical 

imaging 

 DI&M: leak detection using lower emission threshold 

 DI&M: survey and repair leaks 

Pipelines 

 Inject blowdown gas into low pressure system* 

 Pipeline replacement and repair 

 Use fixed/portable compressors for pipeline 

pumpdown* 

 Use hot taps for in-service pipeline connections* 

Pneumatics/Controls 

 Capture/use gas released from gas-operated 

pneumatic pumps 

 Convert gas-driven chemical pumps to instrument air 

(10 years)* 

 Convert gas pneumatic controls to instrument air (10 

years)* 

 Convert pneumatic devices to mechanical/electronic 

(10 years)* 

 Identify and replace high-bleed pneumatic devices 

(7 years)* 

 Install/convert gas powered separators to solar 

powered separators (10 years) 

 Install controllers on gas-assisted methanol pump 

(10 years) 

 Install no bleed controllers (10 years) 

 Install non-venting dump controllers (10 years) 

 Reduce gas pressure on pneumatic devices 

 Reduce venting from unlit pilot: install electronic 

safety devices (10 years)* 

 Replace bi-directional orifice meter with ultrasonic 

meters* 

 Replace chemical pumps with electronic flow 

controllers (10 years) 

 Use add-on controls to reduce emissions from 

pneumatics (10 years) 

Tanks 

 Change out vent pallet (10 years) 

 Consolidate crude oil production and water storage 

tanks (10 years)* 

 Convert water tank blanket from natural gas to CO2

(10 years)* 
Natural Gas STAR International 

Annual Report 

OMB Control No. 2060-0328 

Expires 07/31/2011 

Tanks 

 Install evactors (10 years) 

 Install flash gas compressors (10 years) 

 Install hydrocarbon liquid stabilizer (10 years) 

 Install pressurized storage of condensate (10 years)* 

 Install vapor recovery units (VRUs) (10 years)* 

 Install vapor recovery units on pipeline 

liquid/condensate tanks (10 years)* 

 Recycle line recover gas during condensate loading* 

 Reduce excess blanket gas blow-by to the 

atmosphere 

 Replace leaking aboveground tanks (10 years) 

 Route gas to compressor suction/blowcase vessel 

(10 years) 

 Use protective tank coatings to reduce leaks (10 

years) 

Valves 

 Heat tracing to prevent control valves from freezing 

open 

 Install plugs on valves and open ended lines (10 

years) 

 Reduce venting from unlit pilot: install BASO valves 

(10 years)* 

 Test and repair pressure safety valves* 

Wells 

 Artificial lift: gas lift (10 years) 

 Artificial lift: install plunger lifts (10 years)* 

 Artificial lift: install pumpjacks or rod pumps on gas 

wells (10 years)* 

 Artificial lift: install smart lift automated systems on 

gas wells (10 years)* 

 Artificial lift: install velocity tubing strings (10 years)* 

 Artificial lift: pressure swabbing 

 Artificial lift: use capillary strings (10 years) 

 Artificial lift: use compression (10 years) 

 Artificial lift: use pumping unit (10 years) 

 Artificial lift: use to reduce blowdown in gas wells (10 

years)* 

 Install automated shut-in cycle units to reduce well 

venting (10 years) 

 Install flash tank separator on water gathering 

system (10 years) 

 Install pumps for separators (10 years) 

 Install snubbing unit at wellhead 

 Install soap launcher/soap unit (10 years) 

 Lower heater-treater temperature* 

 Optimize gas well unloading times* 

 Perform reduced emissions completions* 

 Route casinghead gas to VRU or compressor (10 

years)* 

 Use foaming agents to reduce blowdown frequency* 

Other 

 Capture and use waste heat to reduce gas usage 

and emissions 

 Convert natural gas fired generator to solar power 

(10 years) 

 Flare reduction program 

 Improve system design/operation 

 Install flares (10 years)* 

 Install pilotless burner controls (10 years) 

 Install purge reducer on flare (10 years) 

 Optimize nitrogen rejection unit to reduce methane in 

N2 reject stream* 

 Recover gas from separators 

 Re-inject gas for enhanced oil recovery 

 Re-inject gas into crude 

 Replace aged heaters with new efficient gas fired 

heaters (10 years) 

Methane Emission Reduction Technologies & Practices— 

Production Sector
Natural Gas STAR International 

Annual Report 

OMB Control No. 2060-0328 

Expires 07/31/2011 

Appendix A-2 

Methane Emission Reduction Technologies & Practices— 

Gathering and Processing Sector 

The list below describes a variety of methane emission reduction technologies that Natural Gas STAR partners in the gathering and 

processing sector have implemented and reported to Natural Gas STAR. You may use this list as a guide when completing your 

annual report. Sunset dates (i.e., the length of time a technology or practice can continue to accrue emission reductions after 

implemented) are one year in duration unless otherwise noted in parentheses. An asterisk (*) indicates that a technical 

document related to the technology or practice is available online at epa.gov/gasstar/tools/recommended.html. 

Compressors/Engines 

 Convert engine starting to nitrogen and/or CO2 rich 

gas (10 years)* 

 Eliminate unnecessary equipment and/or systems* 

 Install automated air/fuel ratio control systems (10 

years)* 

 Install electric compressors (10 years)* 

 Install electric starters (10 years)* 

 Redesign blowdown/alter ESD practices* 

 Reduce emissions when taking compressors offline* 

 Replace compressor rod packing systems* 

 Replace gas starters with air (10 years)* 

Dehydrators 

 Install condensers on glycol dehydrators (10 years) 

 Install/convert gas-driven chemical pumps to electric, 

mechanical, or solar pumps (10 years)* 

 Install flash tank separators on glycol dehydrators 

(10 years)* 

 Reduce glycol circulation rates in dehydrators* 

 Reroute dehy./tank vents to flare or station suction 

(10 years)* 

 Replace glycol dehydration units with methanol 

injection (10 years)* 

 Reroute glycol skimmer gas* 

Directed Inspection and Maintenance 

 DI&M at compressor stations* 

 DI&M at gas plants and booster stations* 

 DI&M: aerial leak detection using laser and/or 

infrared technology 

 DI&M: inspect/repair compressor station blowdown 

valves* 

 DI&M: leak detection using IR camera/optical 

imaging 

 DI&M: leak detection using ultrasound* 

 Improve measurement systems to track gas loss 

Pipelines 

 Pipeline replacement and repair 

 Recover gas from pipeline pigging operations* 

 Revise pigging schedule to reduce methane 

emissions 

 Use composite wrap repair* 

 Use inert gases and pigs to perform pipeline purges* 

 Use fixed/portable compressors for pipeline 

pumpdown* 

 Use hot taps for in-service pipeline connections* 

 Use of improved protective coating at pipeline canal 

crossings (10 years)* 

Pneumatics/Controls 

 Capture and use waste heat to reduce gas usage 

and emissions 

 Convert gas pneumatic controls to instrument air 

systems (10 years)* 

 Install back-up power at booster sites to prevent 

venting (10 years) 

 Install no bleed controllers (10 years) 

 Use add-on controls to reduce emissions from 

pneumatics (10 years) 

Tanks 

 Direct liquids at compressor suction to pipeline (10 

years) 

 Install hydrocarbon liquid stabilizer (10 years) 

 Install pressurized storage of condensate (10 years)* 

 Install vapor recovery units (VRUs) (10 years)* 

 Install VRUs on pipeline liquid/condensate tanks (10 

years)* 

 Reduce excess blanket gas blow-by to the 

atmosphere 

 Reduce vapors vented out of drip tanks 

 Route inlet flash vapors to station suction (10 years) 

Valves 

 Convert gas operated valves to hydraulic operation 

(10 years) 

 Heat tracing to prevent control valves from freezing 

open 

 Rupture pin shutoff device to reduce venting (10 

years) 

 Test and repair pressure safety valves* 

 Test gate station pressure relief valves with nitrogen* 

Other 

 Convert natural gas fired generator to solar power 

(10 years) 

 Install flares (10 years)* 

 Optimize nitrogen rejection unit to reduce methane in 

N2 reject stream* 

 Process/re-route acid gas to reduce venting
Natural Gas STAR International 

Annual Report 

OMB Control No. 2060-0328 

Expires 07/31/2011 

Appendix A-3 

Methane Emission Reduction Technologies & Practices— 

Transmission Sector 

The list below describes a variety of methane emission reduction technologies that Natural Gas STAR partners in the 

transmission sector have implemented and reported to Natural Gas STAR. You may use this list as a guide when completing your 

annual report. Sunset dates (i.e., the length of time a technology or practice can continue to accrue emission reductions 

after implemented) are one year in duration unless otherwise noted in parentheses. An asterisk (*) indicates that a technical 

document related to the technology or practice is available online at epa.gov/gasstar/tools/recommended.html. 

Compressors/Engines 

 Automate compressor systems operation to reduce 

venting* 

 Eliminate unnecessary equipment and/or systems* 

 Install automated air/fuel ratio control systems (10 

years)* 

 Install electric compressors (10 years)* 

 Install electric motors (10 years) 

 Install electric starters (10 years)* 

 Install lean burn compressor (10 years) 

 Lower compressor purge pressure for shutdown* 

 Redesign blowdown/alter ESD practices* 

 Reduce emissions when taking compressors offline* 

 Reduce frequency of engine starts with gas* 

 Replace compressor cylinder unloaders* 

 Replace compressor rod packing systems* 

 Replace gas starters with air (10 years)* 

 Replace ignition/reduce false starts* 

 Replace wet compressor seals with dry seals (10 

years)* 

 Use of turbines at compressor stations (20 years) 

Dehydrators 

 Install condensers on glycol dehydrators (10 years) 

 Install flash tank separators/controls on Tran. sector 

glycol dehydrators (10 years)* 

 Install/convert gas-driven chemical pumps to electric, 

mechanical, or solar pumps (10 years)* 

 Replace glycol dehydrator with separator & in-line 

heaters (10 years)* 

 Reroute dehy./tank vents to flare or station suction 

(10 years)* 

 Reroute glycol skimmer gas* 

Directed Inspection and Maintenance 

 DI&M at compressor stations* 

 DI&M at remote sites* 

 DI&M: aerial leak detection using laser and/or 

infrared technology 

 DI&M: inspect/repair compressor station blowdown 

valves* 

 DI&M: leak detection using IR camera/optical 

imaging 

 DI&M: leak detection using ultrasound* 

 DI&M: survey and repair leaks 

Pipelines 

 Inspect/repair valves during pipeline replacement* 

 Pipeline replacement and repair 

 Recover gas from pipeline pigging operations* 

 Reduce/downgrade system pressure 

 Reduced emissions through third-party damage 

prevention 

 Use composite wrap repair* 

 Use fixed/portable compressors for pipeline 

pumpdown* 

 Use hot taps for in-service pipeline connections* 

 Use inert gas/pigs for pipeline purges* 

Pneumatics/Controls 

 Convert gas-driven chemical pumps to instrument air 

(10 years)* 

 Convert gas pneumatic controls to instrument air (10 

years)* 

 Identify and replace high-bleed pneumatic devices 

(7 years)* 

 Install no bleed controllers (10 years) 

 Reduce meter run blowdowns 

 Replace bi-directional orifice meter with ultrasonic 

meters* 

 Use add-on controls to reduce emissions from 

pneumatics (10 years) 

Tanks 

 Install flash gas compressors (10 years) 

 Install vapor recovery units on pipeline liquid/ 

condensate tanks (10 years)*
Natural Gas STAR International 

Annual Report 

OMB Control No. 2060-0328 

Expires 07/31/2011 

Valves 

 Close valves during repair to minimize blowdown* 

 Design isolation valves to minimize gas blowdown 

volumes (10 years)* 

 Move in fire gates at compressors (10 years)* 

 Test and repair pressure safety valves* 

 Use of YALE closures for ESD testing* 

Wells 

 Switch from underbalanced to overbalanced drilling 

in gas storage field 

Other 

 Convert natural gas fired generator to solar power 

(10 years) 

 Improve system design/operation 

 Inject blowdown gas into low pressure system* 

 Install flares (10 years)*

 Replace aged heaters with new efficient gas fired 

heaters (10 years)

 Require improvements in quality of gas received*

Methane Emission Reduction Technologies & Practices— 

Transmission Sector
Natural Gas STAR International 

Annual Report 

OMB Control No. 2060-0328 

Expires 07/31/2011 

Appendix A-4 

Methane Emission Reduction Technologies & Practices— 

Distribution Sector 

The list below describes a variety of methane emission reduction technologies that Natural Gas STAR partners in the distribution 

sector have implemented and reported to Natural Gas STAR. You may use this list as a guide when completing your annual report. 

Sunset dates (i.e., the length of time a technology or practice can continue to accrue emission reductions after 

implemented) are one year in duration unless otherwise noted in parentheses. An asterisk (*) indicates that a technical 

document related to the technology or practice is available online at epa.gov/gasstar/tools/recommended.html. 

Compressors/Engines 

 Eliminate unnecessary equipment and/or systems* 

 Install electric starters (10 years)* 

 Redesign blowdown/alter ESD practices* 

 Reduce frequency of engine starts with gas* 

 Replace compressor rod packing systems* 

 Replace ignition/reduce false starts* 

Dehydrators 

 Reroute dehy./tank vents to flare or station suction 

(10 years)* 

Directed Inspection and Maintenance 

 DI&M at compressor stations (non-mainline 

transmission)* 

 DI&M at gate stations and surface facilities* 

 DI&M: survey and repair leaks 

 DI&M: increase frequency of leak surveys* 

 Improve measurement systems to track gas loss 

Pipelines 

 Identify and rehabilitate leaky distribution pipes 

 Insert gas main flexible liners (10 years)* 

 Reduce/downgrade system pressure 

 Reduced emissions through third-party damage 

prevention 

 Use fixed/portable compressors for pipeline 

pumpdown* 

 Use hot taps for in-service pipeline connections* 

 Use no-blow insertion fittings

Pneumatics/Controls 

 Convert gas-driven chemical pumps to instrument air 

(10 years)* 

 Convert gas pneumatic controls to instrument air (10 

years)* 

 Convert pneumatic devices to mechanical/electronic 

(10 years)* 

 Use add-on controls to reduce emissions from 

pneumatics (10 years) 

Valves 

 Install excess flow valves (10 years)* 

 Install overpressure protection system (10 years) 

 Test and repair pressure safety valves* 

 Test gate station pressure relief valves with nitrogen* 

Other 

 Convert natural gas fired generator to solar power 

(10 years) 

 Improve system design/operation 

 Inject blowdown gas into low pressure system* 

 Install flares (10 years)* 

 Re-inject CNG cylinder test gas 

 Retighten LNG pump seals 

 Use automated systems to reduce pressure 
Natural Gas STAR International 

Annual Report 

OMB Control No. 2060-0328 

Expires 07/31/2011 

Appendix B 

Conversion Factors 

Please see below for a variety of conversion factors that might be useful when completing your annual report. Please 

contact Natural Gas STAR if you have questions about this information.

Gas Conversions 

Please report methane emissions reductions to Natural Gas STAR International in thousand cubic feet (Mcf). 

1 Cubic foot of methane = 1,014.6 Btu 

1 Btu = 0.000986 Cubic feet of methane 

1 Cubic foot = 0.02832 Cubic meter 

1 Cubic meter = 35.312 Cubic feet 

1 Mile = 1.609 Kilometer 

1 Kilometer = 0.6214 Mile 

1 Btu = 251.996 Calories 

1 Calorie = 0.00397 Btu 

1 Btu = 1055.056 Joules 

1 Joule = 0.00095 Btu 

Natural Gas STAR Program Managers: 

Scott Bartos 

Phone: +1 (202) 343-9167 

Fax: +1 (202) 343-2202 

E-mail: bartos.scott@epa.gov

Jerome Blackman 

Phone: +1 (202) 343-9630 

Fax: +1 (202) 343-2342 

E-mail: blackman.jerome@epa.gov

Carey Bylin 

Phone: +1 (202) 343-9669 

Fax: +1 (202) 343-2202 

E-mail: bylin.carey@epa.gov 

Roger Fernandez 

Phone: +1 (202) 343-9386 

Fax: +1 (202) 343-2202 

E-mail: fernandez.roger@epa.gov

Suzie Waltzer 

Phone: +1 (202) 343-9544 

Fax: +1 (202) 343-2202 

E-mail: waltzer.suzanne@epa.gov

Mailing Information:

Standard Mail:

The Natural Gas STAR Program 

U.S. EPA (6207J) 

1200 Pennsylvania Ave, NW 

Washington, DC 20460 

U.S.A. 

Express/Overnight Mail:

The Natural Gas STAR Program 

U.S. EPA (6207J) 

1310 L Street, NW 

Washington, DC 20005 

U.S.A. 

The public reporting and recordkeeping burden for this collection of information is 

estimated to average 60 hours for each new response and 27 hours for subsequent 

responses. Send comments on the Agency's need for this information, the accuracy 

of the provided burden estimates, and any suggested methods for minimizing 

respondent burden, including through the use of automated collection techniques to 

the Director, Collection Strategies Division, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 

(2822T), 1200 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, D.C. 20460. Include the OMB 

control number in any correspondence. Do not send the completed form to this 

address.