ExxonMobil and Scepter, Inc. have signed an agreement to make use of advanced satellite technology and proprietary data processing platforms to detect methane emissions worldwide.

The agreement could be a giant leap forward in methane detection and mitigation efforts exerted across a dozen industries, including energy, agriculture, manufacturing, and transportation.

During the first phase of the project, efforts will focus on designing and optimizing the plan for satellite placement and coverage, initially focused on getting methane emissions data from ExxonMobil operations in the Permian Basin.

For its part, Scepter will play an essential in its deployment of satellites in 2023 and coverage will be increased to exceed 24 satellites over three years. This will form a large constellation network capable of monitoring operations around the world, the statement said.

In this regard, Bart Cahir, senior vice president of unconventional at ExxonMobil, said “This collaboration will enable multiple industries to identify the sources of methane emissions around the world in real-time, so that leak repairs or mitigation solutions can be deployed rapidly.”

For his part, Philip Father, chief executive officer of Scepter, said “We’re excited to work with ExxonMobil to develop a system that goes beyond methane detection. Our data fusion platform will be central to a broader capability to detect, quantify, abate and certify.”