LongPath Technologies is expanding its methane sensing network in the Permian Basin with a significant portion of Vital Energy’s assets, the technology company said Sept. 26.

Colorado-based LongPath’s network includes towers equipped with laser transceivers that send out laser beams to detect methane emissions. Data is delivered in real-time via dashboards and customized alerts to field personnel.

“Cost-effective, durable options for oil and gas operators are the key to methane management asset-wide, or even basin-wide,” said LongPath Technologies CEO Ian Dickinson. “Expanding the LongPath methane sensing network in the Permian Basin is important since it will provide the emissions data necessary to support ultra-low methane energy production.”

Companies operating in the U.S. may face penalties if they don’t abide by federal rules aimed at reducing methane emissions.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has set standards to lower emissions from high-emitting equipment, mandated monitoring of methane leaks from well sites and compressor stations and directed companies to eliminate routine flaring of natural gas produced by new oil wells. Plus, companies must switch to zero-emitting technologies and stop the use of natural gas-powered pneumatic controllers.

David Ferris, chief sustainability officer at Vital Energy, said the company believes LongPath’s methane monitoring system will “enhance revenue and mitigate regulatory risks.”

Oklahoma-headquartered Vital Energy has oil and gas properties in the Permian Basin of West Texas. The company, along with non-op E&P Northern Oil and Gas, recently closed on a $1.1 billion purchase of Delaware Basin assets from Point Energy Partners. The transaction was expected to add 68 gross (49 net) inventory locations for Vital.

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