IOGP Report: Methane Seepage Risks in Decommissioned Offshore Wells
IOGP (International Association of Oil & Gas Producers) Report 811 – Understanding methane seepage risks in decommissioned offshore wells.
This IOGP report examines concerns around methane seepage from decommissioned offshore wells, particularly in the North Sea, and evaluates claims that such wells are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. It provides a critical review of recent studies, highlighting methodological flaws and overestimations, and compares seepage volumes from wells with biogenic methane emissions globally.
This report emphasizes that methane natural seepage is a widespread phenomenon, often unrelated to human activity, and that emissions from wells are comparatively minor. This report outlines how industry practices, such as well integrity management and independent verification, have significantly reduced seepage risks.
Drawing on recent field studies and national initiatives, this report presents a balanced, evidence-based perspective. It reinforces the importance of continued monitoring, transparent reporting, and adherence to robust decommissioning standards to ensure environmental protection and responsible offshore operations.
This document can be downloaded from the IOGP Publications Library.
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