New satellite data released during U.S. Climate Week shows that New Mexico’s methane regulations have led to a 50% reduction in oil and gas facility emissions in the Permian Basin compared to Texas. The analysis, based on nine separate satellite observations collected between 2024 and 2025, found that methane intensity in New Mexico’s Delaware sub-basin is 1.2%, while it is 3.1% in the corresponding area of Texas. Methane intensity measures the proportion of natural gas lost to the atmosphere during production.
Despite a more than 100% increase in oil and gas production in New Mexico since 2020—compared to about a 20% rise in Texas—the state has managed to significantly reduce its methane emissions. The captured methane translates into $125 million worth of additional natural gas production and $27 million in tax and royalty revenue for New Mexico, which benefits state programs and local communities.
“New Mexico’s methane regulations demonstrate that we can lead the nation in both energy production and environmental stewardship,” said Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham. “These smart environmental policies generate revenue for our state while protecting our air and fighting climate change.”
Methane is considered a potent greenhouse gas with over 80 times the warming power of carbon dioxide within its first two decades in the atmosphere. In 2021, New Mexico implemented comprehensive rules requiring operators to minimize venting and flaring, use cleaner equipment, conduct regular leak detection, repair leaks, and develop infrastructure for capturing gas—measures not currently required by Texas.
“These science-based improvements appear to be the primary factor identified in achieving these emission reductions and economic benefits, with the satellite data showing clear performance differences between states with and without comprehensive methane rules.”
James C. Kenney, cabinet secretary of the New Mexico Environment Department, stated: “This data proves science-based environmental regulations deliver tangible economic benefits. New Mexico’s methane rules demonstrate that protecting air quality and reducing emissions protect New Mexicans and strengthen our energy sector.”
Jon Goldstein, associate vice president for Energy Transition at Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), added: “This satellite data provides the clearest evidence yet that well-designed methane regulations are both cost-effective and protective. New Mexico’s success under Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham’s leadership demonstrates that cutting methane pollution and waste delivers economic benefits while protecting air quality and our climate.”
The findings are based on technology developed by MethaneSAT—a subsidiary of EDF—with support from the Bezos Earth Fund. This orbital sensing technology enables precise measurement of methane emissions across large regions.
Further details about these findings can be accessed through an interactive website at www.methanesat.org.
