Monthly Lecture

Martin Wilpshaar (TNO) will talk about:

Methane emissions from the seafloor in the North Sea and EU Methane Regulation

Abstract
Methane emissions are receiving increasing attention due to their environmental impact and the recent 2024 European Methane Regulation. Amongst others, this regulation specifies that an offshore well leakage of more than 17 grams per hour, comparable to the emission of a cow, shall as soon as possible be attempted to be repaired no later than 5 days after detection and completed within 30 days after detection. The level of detail and technical complexity of methane emission measurements requires proper verification of methane emission data. Independent verifiers should thus ensure that emissions reports prepared by operators, are accurate and in compliance with the requirements set out in this regulation.

Against this background NIOZ, TNO and SodM joint forces. The results from several research expedition, which investigated methane leakage at abandoned wells and natural sites in the Dutch North Sea will be discussed in this presentation. The results will also be compared with other (alarming) reports.

If you want to know more about this subject please join international specialists and decision-makers at the Methane emissions in the North Sea Symposium on 13 & 14 November 2025 at the Railway Museum in Utrecht.

About the presenter
Martin is senior geology advisor at the Geological Survey of the Netherlands (GDN) since 2016, advising on energy and mining activities for the Ministry of Climate Policy and Green Growth (KGG), and State Supervision of Mines (SodM). Seasoned geologist, holding a PhD from Utrecht University (1995) and over two decades of industry experience. Martin has also been the PGK Chair in 2008.

 

Program:
17:00-18:00 hrs: Social hour
18:00-19:00 hrs: Lecture
19:00-20:00 hrs: Social hour

Teams meeting link: Link to be shared in the PGK newsletter.

Venue:
Oudaen, Oudegracht 99, Utrecht