The renewed agreement extends a collaboration that began in December 2023 and is aimed at improving the detection, measurement and reduction of methane emissions across oil and gas operations.
The initiative forms part of broader industry efforts to enhance environmental sustainability, improve operational efficiency and support global commitments to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
AUSEA, an advanced emissions-monitoring technology, uses ultralight spectrometers mounted on drones to detect and measure methane and carbon dioxide emissions with a high level of accuracy. The technology enables operators to quickly identify leak sources and take corrective actions before they become major environmental concerns.
Developed by TotalEnergies in partnership with France's National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) and the University of Reims, the system has emerged as one of the industry's innovative tools for emissions management and climate action.
By providing precise data on methane and carbon dioxide leaks, AUSEA helps operators strengthen monitoring systems, improve maintenance practices and reduce the environmental footprint of oil and gas production activities.
The partnership renewal comes as TotalEnergies continues to implement measures aimed at reducing emissions across its operations in Nigeria and globally.
According to the company, it became the first exploration and production operator in Nigeria to eliminate routine gas flaring across all its operated assets by the end of 2023, a milestone regarded as a significant contribution to the country's emissions reduction objectives.
The company has also set an ambitious target of achieving near-zero methane emissions by 2030 as part of its broader sustainability strategy.
To support that objective, AUSEA monitoring campaigns are now being carried out across all TotalEnergies-operated sites, with annual drone flights designed to identify methane leaks and support rapid intervention measures.
In addition to drone surveillance, the company disclosed that more than 2,500 sensors were installed across its operations in 2025 to facilitate real-time methane leak detection and enable faster response to potential emissions incidents.
Commenting on the extension of the partnership, Country Chair and Managing Director of TotalEnergies in Nigeria, Matthieu Bouyer, said the collaboration would help accelerate emissions reduction efforts while ensuring more efficient management of Nigeria's energy resources.
"Extending our partnership with NNPC allows us to support our partner in their journey to reduce methane emissions, by leveraging a cutting-edge proven technology, improving measurement and accelerating action. It's an important step for Nigeria as it helps valorising Nigerian resources while lowering emissions," he said.
Industry experts note that methane is one of the most potent greenhouse gases and significantly contributes to global warming. As a result, improving the detection and reduction of methane leaks has become a major focus for energy companies, regulators and environmental stakeholders worldwide.
The continued deployment of technologies such as AUSEA is expected to strengthen Nigeria's environmental performance within the oil and gas sector while supporting international climate commitments and promoting more sustainable energy production practices.