Big US gas producers are methane super emitters, environmental groups’ data shows

Hidden from view, yet potent in its impact, significant amounts of methane – a powerful greenhouse gas – are being released from oil and gas operations in the Appalachian Basin. Recent data captured by airborne sensors and satellites revealed more than 20 large methane plumes emitted last year by EQT Corp and Expand Energy, two major players in the region, with additional releases linked to Berkshire Hathaway Energy.

Unseen Emissions, Significant Impact

The findings, analyzed by Gas Leaks and Earthworks, stem from observations of over 80 large methane releases in West Virginia and Pennsylvania between November 2024 and October 2025. These aren’t minor leaks; most qualify as “super emitter events” as defined by the Environmental Protection Agency – releasing over 100kg of methane per hour. Methane, while colorless and odorless, traps heat at a rate more than 80 times that of carbon dioxide over a 20-year period, making its control crucial in global efforts to limit warming.

Researchers are finding that reported emissions often underestimate the reality on the ground. As Stanford professor Rob Jackson noted, “In this field every time we look more closely, we find that emissions are higher than the [Environmental Protection Agency] and the companies suggest they are.” Specifically, 14 events were linked to facilities owned or operated by EQT, and eight to sites connected to Expand Energy.

Company Responses and Challenges

EQT disputed some of the reported incidents, stating that their own third-party monitoring detected either no emissions or significantly lower levels than those estimated by Carbon Mapper. However, the organizations EQT employs for methane monitoring did not respond to requests for comment. Expand Energy also did not provide a response. EQT spokesperson Amy Rogers explained that alerts from platforms like Carbon Mapper often arrive after the methane has dissipated, making it “difficult to distinguish real events from false positives.”

Both EQT and Expand Energy maintain in their sustainability reports a commitment to reducing methane emissions through leak detection and repair programs, including aerial surveys. Despite these efforts, the data suggests a gap between stated goals and actual emissions.

Looking Ahead

While large releases like those observed by Carbon Mapper grab headlines, the majority of methane emissions from US oil and gas operations actually come from smaller, more diffuse sources emitting less than 100kg per hour. Andrew Baxter, senior director at the Environmental Defense Fund, emphasized that even industry leaders “are very much on a journey here, with miles left to run on reducing their operational methane emissions.”

These large releases can stem from a variety of causes, including infrastructure issues, accidental valve releases, or even intentional venting or flaring for safety reasons. Experts like Jonathan Banks of the Clean Air Task Force point to readily available technological solutions, such as automated flare reignition systems, that could significantly reduce emissions. Some facilities, built decades ago, may also be contributing to higher emissions due to their original design.

The situation is dynamic. Carbon Mapper observed a particularly large plume over a Berkshire Hathaway Energy asset in July, with emissions estimated at 2,000kg per hour, followed by another significant release a month later. Berkshire Hathaway reported identifying and repairing a leak on August 12, but also suggested other operators in the area could have been responsible.

Repeated observations at some sites, including an EQT facility in West Virginia, suggest ongoing issues. Geoff Bromaghim, director of methane accountability at Gas Leaks, noted that almost a quarter of the observed sites were only detected once, raising the question of how much more remains undiscovered as more data becomes available.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is methane and why is it a concern?

Methane is the main component of natural gas and is a potent greenhouse gas, trapping more than 80 times more heat than carbon dioxide over a 20-year period. Controlling methane emissions is a key target in global efforts to limit climate change.

Which companies were identified in the report?

The analysis identified EQT Corp and Expand Energy as the sources of more than 20 large methane plumes, with one-off events also linked to Berkshire Hathaway Energy.

How were these methane plumes detected?

The plumes were detected using airborne sensors and satellites operated by Carbon Mapper, and the data was verified by matching coordinates with public records to identify the operators.

As technology advances and monitoring becomes more sophisticated, will we see a more accurate picture of methane emissions from oil and gas operations, and what impact might that have on industry practices?