PG&E and Bridger Photonics Collaborate to Improve Methane Leak Detection and Reduce Emissions

Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) has partnered with Bridger Photonics to enhance methane leak detection across its natural gas transmission and distribution pipeline system. PG&E serves 16 million people in northern and central California and operates 42,141 miles of natural gas distribution pipelines and 6,438 miles of transmission pipelines. The partnership aims to reduce methane emissions and improve leak detection accuracy using Bridger's Gas Mapping LiDAR/GML technology.

Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) has partnered with Bridger Photonics to enhance methane leak detection across its extensive natural gas transmission and distribution pipeline system. This collaboration aims to improve safety and reduce methane emissions, a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.

PG&E, serving approximately 16 million people across 70,000 square miles in northern and central California, operates 42,141 miles of natural gas distribution pipelines and 6,438 miles of transmission pipelines. The partnership leverages Bridger's advanced Gas Mapping LiDAR/GML technology, which provides rapid and accurate natural gas leak detection, significantly improving upon traditional methods [1].

The GML system offers precise leak localization and quantification, enabling PG&E to prioritize repairs based on emission size and proximity to populated areas and infrastructure. This prioritization ensures faster response times, enhancing safety and more effective emissions reduction [1].

Jeff Janvier, Lead of Gas Distribution Operations at PG&E, underscored the significance of this technology, stating, "PG&E’s utilization of Bridger’s advanced aerial leak detection technology represents a significant step forward in reducing risk on our natural gas system and in lowering methane emissions" [1].

Ben Little, CEO of Bridger Photonics, expressed excitement about the partnership, noting, "We are excited to expand our work across California by partnering with PG&E to support their efforts in reducing methane emissions, improving safety, and enhancing operational efficiency" [1].

PG&E has already demonstrated significant progress in reducing methane emissions, achieving a 42% reduction compared to its 2015 baseline in 2024. The company ranked number one on the 2024 US Utilities Decarbonization Index [1]. The partnership with Bridger Photonics will further accelerate PG&E’s progress towards its goal of achieving a net-zero target by 2040 [1].

References:
[1] https://www.morningstar.com/news/business-wire/20250708574629/pge-and-bridger-photonics-team-up-to-boost-methane-leak-detection-and-improve-safety-and-efficiency