Arvind P. Ravikumar
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About Arvind
Dr. Ravikumar has published over 50 articles in peer-reviewed journals, primarily in the areas of greenhouse gas emissions measurements, lifecycle assessments, and techno-economic modeling. He has been a lead investigator for several large-scale, field campaigns in the US and Canada on methane emissions from oil and gas supply chain. He routinely advises governments, provides expert testimony in Congress, and serves on state and federal advisory committees. Dr. Ravikumar is the co-Director of the Center for Energy and Environmental Systems Analyses (CEESA) at the University of Texas at Austin.
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Reports on the first comprehensive single-blind evaluation of new mobile methane detection technologies on platforms such as trucks, drones, and planes. Finds the results from this study can be directly used by regulators to understand and integrate new technologies into methane mitigation policy frameworks.
Notes that reducing methane emissions from the oil and gas industry is a critical pillar of climate policy in Canada. Notes recently, new technologies and platforms such as drones, planes, and satellites have promised better and more cost-effective leak detection. Undertakes a comprehensive review of all new technologies. Develops performance parameters. Highlights potential operational challenges, and provides a template for future methane policy that makes use of these advanced systems.
Notes regulatory agencies across the US mandate the use of optical gas imaging camera to detect methane leaks at oil and gas facilities - such leak detection programs form the bulk of the government's policy to reduce methane emissions. Studies the performance of these widely-used cameras and show that their performance can vary widely depending on the operator. Finds effectiveness of methane mitigation policies, therefore, will critically depend on the appropriate use of these devices.
Notes reducing methane emissions from the oil and gas industry is a critical component of fighting climate change. Shows that EPA overestimates emissions reduction from its policy, while also overestimating its costs.