West Virginia natural gas and oil plays a critical role in the journey toward a lower carbon future, with operators here driving significant emission reduction progress and leading the charge in adopting innovative methods to improve performance. With natural gas already recognized for its low-emission profile, these companies are stepping up their efforts to help West Virginia and the broader region maintain its status as the country’s largest and cleanest source of natural gas.

As a key economic driver, the natural gas industry is vital for job creation and community development while simultaneously meeting current energy needs and long-term sustainability goals. Recently, GO-WV member companies have been praised for their innovation and commitment to continuous improvement.

Here’s a look at how some of these companies are transforming the energy landscape into a cleaner, more sustainable one.

Member Spotlights:

EQT Corp.

EQT, one of the largest natural gas producers in the U.S., is taking an innovative approach to meet its net-zero emissions goals, as the Pittsburgh Business Times reported this week. In October 2023, EQT achieved a significant milestone by reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions across its natural gas production wells in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Ohio, a full year ahead of its original target.

To date, EQT has cut over 600,000 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions through a variety of strategies. These efforts include replacing more than 9,000 pneumatic devices and electrifying its hydraulic fracturing fleet. A key aspect of their approach has also been a collaboration with the state of West Virginia, where the company has funded and supported planting native trees, removing invasive species and restoring habitats for wildlife.

Northeast Natural Energy

Northeast Natural Energy is making notable strides in its efforts to reduce environmental impact, according to recent reporting from the Dominion Post. Through its partnership with Kathairos Solutions, the company has implemented an innovative system designed to minimize methane emissions across its well sites. By replacing traditional pneumatic devices, which often rely on methane to operate valves, with liquid nitrogen, Northeast has achieved a 41% year-over-year reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.

This system, now in use across all of Northeast’s Marcellus pads, draws liquid nitrogen from the air and returns it without harmful emissions, significantly lowering the company’s carbon footprint. This approach has enabled Northeast to reduce approximately 400-500 metric tons of methane annually.

Antero Resources

Antero Resources is advancing environmental progress through the adoption of innovative technologies. The company has electrified its hydraulic fracturing fleet, replacing diesel-powered equipment with electric units to cut emissions and improve efficiency, according to Natural Gas Intelligence. Antero has also focused on reducing methane emissions by implementing advanced detection tools like infrared cameras, which help identify and repair leaks quickly. In addition, the company has developed a comprehensive water recycling strategy, reusing produced water for hydraulic fracturing to reduce freshwater use and minimize environmental impact.