Meeting AER Directive 060 Updates with Qube’s Proven alt-FEMP Solutions
What is Directive 060 and the Alternative Fugitive Emission Management Program (Alt-FEMP)?
The Alberta Energy Regulator's (AER) Directive 060 governs flaring, venting, and incineration in upstream petroleum and gas operations. Its primary goal is to establish emissions limits, operational standards, and monitoring requirements to reduce environmental impact. A critical part of Directive 060 is the Fugitive Emissions Management Program (FEMP), which mandates regular leak detection, repair timelines, and compliance reporting.
The Alternative Fugitive Emission Management Program (alt-FEMP) is a framework within Directive 060 that promotes innovation in emissions monitoring and leak detection. As a substitute for scheduled OGI surveys, AER has prescribed equivalent program for the use of stationary monitors based on the Minimum Detection Threshold of 90% Probability of Detection. Alt-FEMP allows operators to adopt advanced technologies like Qube’s continuous monitoring (CM) solution, which can often exceed the performance of traditional Optical Gas Imaging (OGI). Implementing an alt-FEMP can lead to reduced field work associated with emissions management shifting to desktop reviews. Furthermore, it can lead to a reduction in AVO and OGI work. Rely on operational data (SCADA, field activities, etc.) along with CM to monitor emissions.
Proposed Updates to Directive 060 Alt-FEMP
On October 24, 2024, the AER released draft updates to Directive 060 as part of the Red Tape Reduction Implementation Act. These changes aim to simplify regulatory requirements, improve administrative efficiency, and incorporate recommendations from the Methane Emission Mitigation Policy Working Group. Key updates include expanded alt-FEMP options, increasing flexibility for alternative emissions management programs. These updates present a significant opportunity for operators to adopt advanced technologies like Qube’s CM solution to achieve measurable emissions reductions while ensuring compliance with evolving regulations.
The updated version of Directive 060 will be released in 2025. Stay tuned for updates from Qube, including upcoming webinars, articles, and expert insights to help operators navigate the new requirements once they are finalized.
Impact and Benefits of Alt-FEMP
Alt-FEMP provides significant benefits for companies looking to modernize emissions management practices. By integrating innovative technologies, operators can:
Enhance Operational Efficiency: Reduce the time and resources needed for emissions monitoring and repairs.
Achieve Measurable Emissions Reductions: Advanced solutions like continuous monitoring enable faster leak detection and mitigation, aligning with environmental targets.
Demonstrate Industry Leadership: Implementing cutting-edge technologies positions companies as leaders in environmental stewardship and regulatory compliance.
How Qube Supports Alt-FEMP Applications and Implementation
Qube Technologies simplifies the alt-FEMP approval and implementation process with a proven, step-by-step approach.
Operators begin by selecting appropriate technologies, such as Qube’s CM solutions with OGI follow-up, tailored to their facility needs. Qube then supports site selection – once approved – Qube helps operators seamlessly integrate the alternative technologies into their workflows. Throughout the implementation phase, Qube’s real-time monitoring tools ensure performance tracking, compliance adherence, and streamlined reporting. At the end of the approved period, operators submit a performance report to the AER, supported by Qube’s automated data collection and visualization tools.
Qube’s minimum detection threshold (MDT) at 90% probability of detection (POD) and rate quantification capabilities qualifies it for alt-FEMP Program 2 outlined in the Equivalency Matrix in Directive 060. Specifically, emission detection follow-up must occur every 4 months and large emitter emission detection follow-up (>500 m3 of CH4/day above baseline sustained for 24 hours) within 30 days.
Process of Leak Detection with Continuous Monitoring
Qube’s continuous monitoring (CM) solutions set a new standard for emissions management. On-site sensors detect methane leaks in real time, even in adverse conditions. Advanced analytics quantify leak intensity and calculate emissions, allowing for targeted remediation planning. Operators receive instant alarm notifications when emissions exceed predefined thresholds, enabling rapid responses that reduce both environmental impact and operational costs. Continuous monitoring easily integrates into both interval checks and large leak detection.
Figure 1 - Emissions Interval Check and Leak Detection Processes Supported by Qube’s Continuous Monitoring Technology
Qube’s real-time dashboards provide actionable insights and historical data analysis, ensuring compliance with AER’s updated Directive 060. This proactive approach reduces response times and aligns with performance-based alt-FEMP standards. Notably, large leaks—responsible for 80% of emissions—are quickly identified and mitigated, delivering significant environmental and financial benefits.
Why Choose Qube for Your Alt-FEMP: Save Time and Costs while Reducing Emissions
There are many benefits to implementing an alt-FEMP supported by continuous monitoring. First, it reduces operating costs and time spent on qualified in-person facility OGIs while achieving compliance with AER requirements. Secondly, continuous monitoring identifies emissions beyond fugitives. We have proven results identifying process inefficiencies like incomplete combustion at burners and flares as well as leaks from underground piping. Qube Technologies was the first continuous monitoring technology to be approved for alt-FEMP and has a consistent track record achieving emissions reductions in all approved alt-FEMPs to date. For detailed examples of real-world successes, including how Qube’s technology addressed common challenges like plugged flame arrestors and incomplete combustion, read our case studies here. By integrating Qube’s CM systems, operators have reduced operating costs with reduced reliance on OGI inspections, achieved faster leak repairs, all while achieving compliance with AER requirements and significantly lowering total emissions.
Qube’s Engagement with AER: Beyond Compliance
Qube’s role extends far beyond alt-FEMP plan approval. By actively collaborating with the AER, Qube advocates for its customers and ensures alignment with evolving regulatory requirements. This ongoing engagement allows Qube to shape continuous monitoring workflows while delivering long-term compliance assurance for operators.
Through tailored solutions, expert support, and proactive advocacy, Qube positions its customers to not only meet but exceed Directive 060’s updated requirements.
The updates to AER Directive 060 underscore the importance of innovative solutions for fugitive emissions management. Qube Technologies provides proven alt-FEMP solutions that reduce costs, inspections and emissions while simplifying compliance and enhancing operational efficiency. By leveraging Qube’s continuous monitoring systems and expertise, companies can confidently navigate regulatory changes and demonstrate leadership in environmental stewardship.
Contact Qube today to learn how our approved solutions can help you meet alt-FEMP requirements and drive proven, measurable emissions reductions.
For more insights into how Qube Technologies is driving emissions reduction and sustainability in the oil and gas sector, explore our other resources and case studies or reach out directly.