Q439. How does the GHGRP relate to EPA’s Natural Gas STAR program?

A439. EPA’s Natural Gas STAR Program is a voluntary program focused on reducing methane emissions from the oil and natural gas sector. Through this program, EPA collaborates with operators and industry stakeholders to advance the adoption of cost-effective technologies and practices that improve operational efficiency and reduce emissions of methane, a potent GHG and a non-renewable clean energy resource. Under this voluntary program, EPA hosted two successful reporting partnerships, the Natural Gas STAR Partnership (1993 – 2022) and the Methane Challenge Partnership (2016 – 2024). While the reporting partnership aspects of the Natural Gas STAR Program have been sunset, the Program remains in place as an active forum for technical assistance and information sharing to and amongst the industry, with the goal of reducing methane emissions and operational risk, improving operational efficiency, local air quality, and overall safety.

The GHGRP for petroleum and natural gas systems (subpart W) complements voluntary industry efforts to reduce methane emissions through the Natural Gas STAR Program. The data submitted under the GHGRP provides important information on the location and magnitude of GHG emissions from petroleum and natural gas systems which allow petroleum and natural gas facilities to better track their own emissions. The information collected under the GHGRP can be used to aid companies in further identifying cost effective opportunities to reduce emissions in the future, minimize wasted energy and save money.