Controlled release testing of commercially available methane emission measurement technologies at the TADI facility

Abstract. This study presents the first public, academic, blinded controlled release evaluation of methane detection and quantification technologies in Europe. Conducted at the TotalEnergies Anomalies Detection Initiatives (TADI) site in France, the campaign tested eight commercial systems – including satellite, drone, and continuous monitoring platforms – under controlled single-blind conditions. Participants submitted methane emission rate estimates without prior knowledge of true release values. Performance was assessed through detection limit curves, parity plots, and statistical metrics including slope and R². False positive detection rates ranged from 0 to 11 %. Quantification slopes ranged from 0.09 to 1.13, with a trend toward underestimation, and R2 values ranged from 0.08 to 0.97. Wind conditions – particularly low speeds and high variability – were a key factor affecting quantification accuracy, emphasizing the need for high-quality wind data integration. This study underscores the importance of rigorous, standardized testing to benchmark technology performance and inform regulatory efforts. Results highlight platform-specific strengths and challenges, providing actionable insights for participants, policymakers, and regulators. These findings support the development of robust, validated methane measurement tools critical to achieving effective emissions monitoring and reduction strategies under evolving regulatory frameworks, such as those in the European Union.