Flaring Cost-Benefit Analysis
Yori Jamin, Clearstone Engineering Ltd.
GL 15-ARPC-07
Develop the evidential basis to assist industry and decision-makers determine appropriate flaring and venting thresholds for Western Canadian upstream oil and gas facilities. The study will critically review and summarize existing regulated thresholds and the underlying scientific and economic (private and social) basis employed for key jurisdictions in North America.
Policy Issue
Improving air emissions inventories through improved emissions factors and reporting methodologies.
Knowledge Gap
For industry to evaluate the impact of potential policy measures to control air pollutants and greenhouse gases, they need to assess emerging technologies that have not yet been proven for commercial use. To assess the suitability of the technology, industry requires knowledge of the overall reduction potential and cost-effectiveness. To that end, there needs to be abroad understanding of the trade-offs and full environmental life-cycle of each technology (i.e., increased collateral emissions; specifically GHGs, carbon monoxide and unburned hydrocarbons, and additional fuel usage; when using natural gas fired reciprocating engines, etc.) so that a net environmental benefit is achieved through broad technological deployment.