The oil and gas industry is a global resource. While it’s helpful for day-to-day operations, it’s difficult to ignore the immense energy usage and harmful impact on the environment by these industries.
They must evolve to create a better life for all of the earth. Learn more about the ways the oil and gas industry can improve energy efficiency!
Investing in more research
There is no progress without research. It’s essential to understand how companies function to know where to make improvements. Without this research, industries cannot grow and learn from past habits. Research of current practices, their impact on the environment, and how to minimize the impact will create the biggest difference in the way the oil and gas industry operates today.
Reducing flaring and venting of natural gas
Flaring occurs when refineries burn gas using dedicated flare items that release carbon dioxide or methane emissions into the atmosphere. Venting is the direct release of natural gas in small amounts into the environment.
As oil and gas companies fight climate change, reducing flaring natural gas requires a great deal of attention. Not only does this process pose environmental threats, but it also uses excess energy to burn and release these greenhouse gases. Instead, it’s vital to reduce this process to use the resources more effectively to minimize the impact on the atmosphere.
Reusing resources
Instead of letting valuable resources go to waste, a major change the oil and gas industry can make is finding a resourceful way to repurpose products. For example, waste heat to power (WHP) takes waste that would typically exit the facility through the vents and extend into the atmosphere and uses it for energy purposes. Through this process, WHP can save the industry money by reducing energy costs and bettering the environment.
Upgrading to energy-efficient equipment
While updating the current equipment is ideal, it’s likely new ideas to limit energy consumption aren’t compatible with the current tools. Instead, companies will have to make gradual adjustments and install new equipment.
Energy-efficient equipment like turbines, compressors, and pumps can more effectively reduce energy consumption. The high-quality equipment will result in lower energy use that will benefit the environment.
With every small change comes a big reward. Over time, the oil and gas industry can minimize its overall energy consumption. Limiting the negative impact on the environment will improve its energy efficiency and create a better process for everyone involved.
