Autonomous Methane Detection Drones Earn EPA Approval for Oil and Gas Compliance

Percepto system authorized as Alternative Test Method under OOOOa and OOOOb

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has approved Percepto’s autonomous OGI drone system as an Alternative Test Method under Subparts OOOOa and OOOOb. The approval allows fully remote optical gas imaging inspections for federal compliance at new and existing sources.

Percepto’s technology can detect emissions under 1 kilogram per hour. It has demonstrated performance down to 100 grams per hour with 90 percent reliability. This level of detail enables operators to conduct component specific checks across several sites each day without sending teams into the field.

The system already meets methane detection requirements in New Mexico and Colorado. It offers a unified approach for both federal and state programs.

Validated in Controlled and Real World Conditions

EPA approval followed a detailed testing and validation program. Controlled testing at the METEC facility involved more than 200 adjustable emission points monitored by certified inspectors. The drones proved consistent detection at 100 grams per hour at 90 percent reliability.

Trials also took place in the Permian Basin. In higher wind environments, the drones detected emissions down to 300 grams per hour.

This mix of laboratory and operational testing confirms the system’s reliability across a range of operating environments.

Scaling Remote Operations for Faster Response

Percepto reports that several upstream operators already use the technology in daily operations. In one deployment, more than 130 potential emission events were found in three months. The field team saved more than 1,000 work hours and reassigned two operators to other priority roles.

These early results suggest that autonomous methane monitoring can reduce product loss while improving worker safety by limiting exposure in the field.

Preparing Operators for Future Rules and Market Needs

Percepto says its customers see autonomous surveys as a long term shift.

“Forward looking companies are already deploying autonomous systems across upstream assets,” said Dor Abuhasira, CEO of Percepto. “They’re minimizing manual workload, reducing detection to repair time, and optimizing compliance workflows. For these operators, this is more than a point solution. It’s infrastructure for the future.”

Operators investing in scalable automation today are better positioned to adjust to changes in regulation, operations, and markets without disruption.

Read more:

• Percepto’s New Solution Delivers Real-Time Emissions Insights at Scale
• The Inside Story on Chevron’s Autonomous Drone Inspections with Percepto
• Percepto Secures FAA Type Certificate, Enhancing Safety and Reliability in Drone Operations