Innovative solutions, such as flare-to-power technologies, offer a sustainable alternative to gas-flaring practices that release carbon dioxide equivalents (CO₂e), says Hesham El Shamy, Head of Oil & Gas - Aggreko AMEA.
The 2024 Global Gas Flaring Tracker Report has unveiled a concerning trend in global gas-flaring practices, emphasising the urgent need for change to mitigate its growing impact on the planet. In 2023, gas flaring surged by nine billion cubic metres (bcm) to reach 148 bcm globally, releasing approximately 381 million tonnes of CO2₂e – the highest level observed since 2019, says Shamy.
Flare-to-power technologies can harness the energy potential of flared gas while addressing environmental concerns. These technologies present an opportunity to transform what has traditionally been viewed as a waste product into a valuable energy resource. By capturing and utilising flared gas, companies can generate electricity, improving their energy efficiency and significantly reducing their environmental footprint, says Shamy.
He says the concept of flare-to-power is promising as it addresses multiple challenges simultaneously. It reduces the direct environmental impact of flaring by decreasing the amount of greenhouse gases released into the atmosphere. Secondly, it turns a waste product into a useful resource, improving overall energy efficiency. Lastly, it can provide a reliable source of power at optimum total cost of energy in regions where energy access is limited.
However, Shamy says the widespread adoption of flare-to-power solutions faces several challenges. Many companies lack the necessary infrastructure to capture and utilise flared gas effectively. The initial investment required for such infrastructure can be substantial and, without clear economic incentives, many operators have been hesitant to make this commitment.
Additionally, the reliability of flared gas as a power source has been a concern. Gas flaring isn't always consistent, as it depends on oil production, making it challenging to rely on as a primary energy source.
Despite these challenges, the potential benefits of addressing gas flaring are too significant to ignore, says Shamy. The environmental impact alone justifies serious action, but the economic and social benefits add further weight to the argument for change.
As an energy solutions provider, Aggreko’s range of solutions are designed to address the challenges of gas flaring by providing insights into gas composition, ensuring a consistent and qualified gas supply for power generation, says Shamy.
He says the Global Gas Flaring Tracker Report serves as a reminder of the work that still needs to be done.
