Quantifying Fugitive Methane from Coal Exploration Boreholes Using A Trailer-Mounted Quantum Gas Lidar System

The mitigation of anthropogenic climate forcing necessitates substantial reductions in methane emissions, given methane's elevated radiative forcing potential. While the Global Methane Pledge establishes a framework for 30% emissions reduction by 2030, precise quantification of fugitive emissions remains challenging due to their stochastic spatiotemporal characteristics.

This investigation presents the application of trailer-mounted Quantum Gas Lidar instrumentation for the detection, visualisation, and quantification of methane flux rates from holes drilled for coal exploration in Queensland, Australia. The methodology leverages high-resolution spatial and temporal sampling capabilities to enable flux quantification of traditionally challenging emission sources. Extended temporal measurement campaigns reveal significant variability in emission rates, highlighting the necessity of continuous monitoring protocols for accurate flux determination.

The results demonstrate the effectiveness of Quantum Gas Lidar technology in fugitive methane quantification, offering uninterrupted accurate measurements through a range of weather conditions.  Real-time visualisation and temporal quantification capabilities enhance understanding of emission dynamics. This work illustrates the significance of advanced sensing methodologies in achieving Global Methane Pledge objectives and emphasising the role of innovative monitoring approaches for targeting abatement strategies.