Shell earns MiQ methane certification across U.S. Gulf portfolio

June 02, 2026

(WO) — Shell has become the first operator to receive MiQ methane emissions certification across its entire Gulf of America/Gulf of Mexico production portfolio, with all 10 offshore assets earning the organization's top Grade A methane performance rating. 

The certification follows an independent third-party audit conducted under MiQ's methane emissions standard. According to MiQ, the rating reflects low methane intensity as well as monitoring and mitigation programs designed to detect and reduce emissions.

The certification also marks the first time MiQ has certified offshore crude oil production assets, expanding the use of independent methane verification beyond natural gas operations.

Shell said it has reduced methane emissions from its Gulf of America operations by 40% since 2016 while increasing production by 40% over the same period. The company operates one of the largest offshore portfolios in the basin and has previously reported that its Gulf production ranks among the lowest greenhouse gas-intensity oil production operations globally.

“Shell's certification in the Gulf of America is another milestone for methane emissions transparency,” said Georges Tijbosch, Chief Executive Officer of MiQ. “It shows how operators can prepare for a future where credible emissions data is essential for regulatory compliance and market access.”

“This Grade A certification demonstrates our operational excellence and disciplined execution offshore,” said Mahamat Abdelsalam, Vice President for Safety and Environment for Shell's U.S. Gulf operations.

MiQ, a not-for-profit organization focused on methane emissions certification, said it currently certifies more than 30% of U.S. natural gas production and more than 7% of global gas supply.

Connect with World Oil
Connect with World Oil, the upstream industry's most trusted source of forecast data, industry trends, and insights into operational and technological advances.