A new analysis by Texans for Natural Gas confirms that methane emissions are on the decline across the Permian Basin. The Basin, a powerhouse of both Texas and U.S. oil production, has achieved impressive results in recent years, with methane intensity in the Permian reaching one of its lowest levels this decade in 2023, at 0.49 metric tons of methane per barrel of oil equivalent. This decline represents a nearly 83 percent reduction in methane intensity since 2011, even as production soared by 482 percent, illustrating that increased production and environmental stewardship are not mutually exclusive.
Minimizing flaring remains a focus for the Texas oil and natural gas industry, with flaring intensity in the Permian Basin in 2023 dropping to levels 65 percent lower than in 2015. While 2023 saw a slight increase in flaring intensity compared to 2022, preliminary reports suggest that the 2023 uptick is temporary, with estimates pointing to an approximate 14 percent reduction in 2024. Statewide, Texas has also reduced flaring intensity by 47 percent since its peak in 2018, even as total production has increased by nearly 25 percent.
The Permian Basin’s record production in 2023, coupled with reduced emissions, is demonstrative of industry’s continued commitment to responsible development. The Texas Methane and Flaring Coalition is committed to the goal of ending routine flaring by 2030—and is pleased to highlight these numbers.
