Ghana Takes Steps to Reduce Methane Emissions in Oil Fields

Strategic Insights -

Ghana is committed to reducing methane emissions from oil fields, a move that will significantly contribute to the country's climate action plans. As part of its strategy, Ghana aims to reduce or eliminate routine gas flaring from oil fields by 2026 and invest in modern technologies to improve methane measurement. The country is also exploring options with partners to convert excess gas into usable energy. This initiative is crucial in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and meeting the country's national plans.

Key Takeaways:

  • Ghana plans to reduce or eliminate routine gas flaring from oil fields by 2026, a significant step towards reducing methane emissions.
  • The country is investing in a second gas plant to convert excess gas into usable energy, which will help minimize gas flaring.
  • Ghana is exploring options with partners to use modern technologies to improve methane measurement and reduce emissions.
  • The country is also expected to incorporate methane management into its national regulations, which will improve transparency and credibility to buyers and investors.
  • Early-stage oil and gas producers have a unique opportunity to design infrastructure and operational practices that minimize leaks and emissions.
  • Global buyers, particularly in Europe, are beginning to use methane performance as a key criterion in deciding which gas to import, making emissions control a matter of market access as well as climate responsibility.
  • Compliance with European Union regulations requiring exporters to demonstrate methane management will be essential for African producers who want to keep or grow their market share in Europe.
  • At least half of methane abatement options are revenue-enhancing, and technologies to detect and reduce emissions already exist.
  • Institutional investors are increasingly screening oil and gas companies for methane emissions before making investment decisions.

Statistics:

  • More than 500 million tonnes of oil equivalent are consumed annually by the European Union, most of which is imported.
  • Methane is over 80 times stronger than carbon dioxide as a greenhouse gas over a 20-year period.
  • At least half of methane abatement options are revenue-enhancing.
  • Global buyers, particularly in Europe, are beginning to use methane performance as a key criterion in deciding which gas to import.
  • More than 40% of global oil and gas production is already covered under the Oil and Gas Methane Partnership (OGMP 2.0).

Sources:

  • Ghana News Agency, "Ghana takes steps to reduce methane emissions in oil fields" (September 18, 2025)
  • European Union, "Commission publishes proposal for a regulation on methane emissions in the oil and gas sector" (2024/1787)
  • Environmental Defense Fund, "Methane Emissions in Oil and Gas Development" (no specific date mentioned)
  • Oxford Institute for Energy Studies, "The European Union's methane regulation: implications for African oil producers" (no specific date mentioned)
  • Emerging Markets Investors' Alliance, "Methane Abatement: A Win for the Climate, a Win for Producers, and a Win for Economies" (no specific date mentioned)