As the energy industry evolves, we stand at a critical juncture in how greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are perceived and managed. Energy security and affordability shape communities today, while emissions released into the atmosphere will impact generations to come.
Power is fundamental to modern life, and we are privileged to have access to diverse energy sources. Global energy demand continues to rise, with fossil fuels still accounting for 87% of the energy mix in 2024[1]. Despite this dominance, renewables and natural gas recorded the fastest growth—38% and 28% respectively[2].
Natural gas will have a prominent position in the future energy landscape. But instead of being a transitionary resource, it could become the dominant fossil energy source in place of the emissions-intensive alternatives of coal and oil, working in harmony with renewable energies.
The Status Quo
Despite its importance, vast quantities of natural gas are wasted every year. According to the International Energy Agency, the oil and gas sector released ~200 bcm of methane into the atmosphere in 2024 and flared another ~150 bcm during routine operations[3]. That’s equivalent to 8% of global gas production, double the amount exported by the USA[4], the world’s largest gas exporter.
Changing Perspective
With energy demand surging and domestic supply becoming increasingly strategic, the idea of discarding a high-value, low-emission resource seems counterintuitive. Associated gas, often flared or vented as a by-product of oil production, comes at no additional development cost.
The opportunity is appears clear: turn waste into revenue while reducing emissions. By reframing associated gas as a critical energy resource, we unlock social, environmental, and economic benefits. This shift could recover nearly 100 bcm of natural gas annually, worth an estimated $12.5 billion USD[5].
Expanding Industry Expertise
Reducing routine flaring and eliminating methane venting are top priorities for governments, producers, and climate advocates. Whether driven by monetization or compliance, solutions exist within conventional oilfield technologies.
Expro delivers full-cycle gas and emissions management, including detection, monitoring, compression, pumping, and power generation. Backed by engineering and project management expertise, Expro has implemented fast-track solutions in challenging environments, helping customers generate immediate revenue while cutting GHG emissions.
The Future Is in Our Hands
Those who succeed are those who have vision. We have the opportunity to extract value from unused energy while contributing to societal progress and environmental improvements. If it was easy, then everyone would do it. Which poses the question: Why aren’t we?
 | JAMES YARD is the Sustainable Energy Solutions Manager for Expro and works in the Sustainable Energy Solutions department. He has 15 years of experience in the oil and gas industry, with expertise in downhole monitoring, wireless technologies and CCUS. He graduated from the University of Bristol with a master’s degree in geology. |
Resources:
[1] Energy Institute - Statistical Review of World Energy 2025 - https://www.energyinst.org/statistical-review
[2] International Energy Agency – Global Energy Review 2025. https://iea.blob.core.windows.net/assets/5b169aa1-bc88-4c96-b828-aaa50406ba80/GlobalEnergyReview2025.pdf
[3] International Energy Agency – Global Methane Tracker 2025. https://www.iea.org/reports/global-methane-tracker-2025/key-findings
[4] US Energy Information Administration. https://www.eia.gov/international/data/world/natural-gas/dry-natural-gas-production?pd=3002&p=00g&u=0&f=A&v=mapbubble&a=-&i=none&vo=value&t=C&g=00000000000000000000000000000000000000000000000001&l=249-ruvvvvvfvtvnvv1vrvvvvfvvvvvvfvvvou20evvvvvvvvvvnvvvs0008&s=315532800000&e=1672531200000
[5] Using average Henry Hub Natural Gas Spot Price for 2025 of 3.45 USD / MBtu. US Energy Information Administration. https://www.eia.gov/dnav/ng/hist/rngwhhdm.htm
