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Energy & Science:The World’s Big Hidden Polluters
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Energy Transfer Confirms Gas Release Near Site of Methane Plume

  • Pipeline ‘blowdown’ was part of maintenance work in Missouri
  • Satellite data compiled by Kayrros revealed methane leak
Sections of pipe sit near a farm at an Energy Transfer Partners LP construction site.

Sections of pipe sit near a farm at an Energy Transfer Partners LP construction site.

Photographer: Charles Mostoller/Bloomberg

Energy Transfer LP confirmed it released gas from a pipeline where satellite data showed a methane leak, highlighting the uphill battle to curb emissions of one of the most potent global warming culprits. 

The emissions detected by satellite this month near Pleasant Hill, Missouri, and analyzed by Kayrros SAS, appeared to stem from a pipeline maintenance practice known as blowdown, where gas is released to reduce pressure and ensure safety. Energy Transfer confirmed it was carrying out blowdowns as part of regular work on its Panhandle Eastern pipeline in the area.