In 2016, a historic agreement was reached in Paris under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Governments from countries across the globe agreed stronger and more ambitious climate action was urgently required. Among them was Malaysia which agreed to play a role in implementing the newly formed Paris Agreement – to reduce global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
While failing to capture gas is not a significant issue in Malaysia, as a major oil and gas producer, gas flaring is a necessary evil.
A strong economy
Malaysia is the fourth largest economy in Southeast Asia. The country’s energy needs are growing at an annual rate of three per cent – and are predicted to do so until 2030. With increasing demand, the country is racing to increase its energy supplies.
According to recent data, 93 per cent of Malaysia’s energy comes from fossil fuels. 40 per cent is produced from fuel oil and diesel, 36 per cent from natural gas and 17 per cent from coal. This is due to Malaysia’s oil and natural gas reserves, which are the fourth largest in the Asia-Pacific – after China, India and Vietnam.
Flaring by necessity
As a major producer of oil and gas, flaring is a necessary part of Malaysia’s energy industry to promote safety. Flares are used to burn off unwanted natural gas, avoiding significant build-ups of pressure and minimising the risk of explosion. They are also crucial safety devices for the start-up and shutdown of hydrocarbon processes.
As many of Malaysia’s energy extraction processes can result in the release of natural gas, reliance on flaring causes CO2 to be released into the atmosphere, contributing to the country’s GHG emissions.
Curbing flaring
Peer reviews of Malaysia’s energy efficiency initiatives commend the country’s recent efforts. Emissions are already down from eight metric tonnes per capita in 2014, despite increasing energy demand and supply.
While still ranked second in the region in terms of emissions, Malaysia is firmly committed to reducing its GHG output. The country is aiming to reduce emission intensity by 35 per cent by 2030.
A critical part of Malaysia’s reduction of emissions will be the monitoring and measurement of natural gas. Accurate measurement allows operators to better identify the processes that result in the most gas flaring and will help with emissions reporting to effectively meet new targets.
Fluenta’s FGM 160 Flare Gas Meter uses ultrasonic technology to provide the most accurate flow measurement data.
For more information on Fluenta’s FGM 160 Flare Gas Meter, click here.
