We are delighted to announce the return of Cristina Lopez, Research Engineer specializing in Methane Emissions and Gas Detection activity leader at RICE (GRTgaz), after a four-month stay in the United States as part of the RICEAcademy international exchange program, supported by RICE and GRTgaz. During this mission, Cristina had the opportunity to collaborate with GTI Energy's ZEST team, working on innovative projects focused on reducing methane emissions. Thanks to this experience, Cristina has acquired valuable skills in emissions management, while strengthening our strategic partnership with GTI Energy, a key player in gas research and innovation. His return marks an important milestone for RICE, with rewarding prospects for our commitment to renewable gases and reduced environmental impact.
A key project for decarbonization: the "Veritas" program
During her mission, Cristina played a central role in the "Veritas" program, a large-scale initiative bringing together players from academia and industry. This program aims to establish benchmarks and methodologies for measuring and reconciling CH4 emissions on an industrial site scale.
Cristina's work focused on producing a protocol adapted to the midstream segment of the gas chain. By participating in the development of reliable practices and positioning her expertise within the project, Cristina has contributed to the establishment of industry standards that will facilitate the transition to more environmentally-friendly practices on a global scale.
Cristina has also been involved in other projects involving the use of fixed sensors for continuous monitoring of methane emissions. This approach guarantees real-time monitoring of emissions, enabling more accurate detection and proactive management of leaks.
Sharing expertise worldwide: IGRC2024 and the Methane Mitigation Summit Series
In addition to her work with the ZEST team, Cristina has also been an ambassador for our expertise at two major international gas research events: the IGRC2024 (International Gas Research Conference) and the Methane Mitigation Summit Series.
At these events, Cristina presented innovative solutions in gas detection and CCUS (Carbon Capture, Utilization and Storage) technologies, underlining RICE and GTI Energy's commitment to the fight against climate change. These events offered Cristina a platform to share our team's technical advances, while strengthening our international network of experts and industry players.
The Methane Mitigation Summit Series, in particular, brought together over 400 specialists and suppliers of methane emission reduction technologies. Cristina presented practical and technical solutions to help the gas industry meet its emissions reduction targets.
Training for better innovation: training in non-destructive techniques for polyethylene pipe networks
Alongside the methane emissions projects, another important aspect of this mission was the strengthening of technical skills. As part of our partnership with GTI Energy, a team comprising Dominique Gueugnaut, Manuel Tessier and Pierre Arcigni from Groupe Institut de Soudure provided training in non-destructive techniques for analyzing polyethylene pipe systems.
The training, held at GTI Energy's headquarters in Des Plaines, Illinois, taught advanced inspection methods that guarantee the safety and durability of gas infrastructures. This partnership demonstrates GTI Energy's and RICE's mutual commitment to investing in the ongoing development of their teams' technical skills.
An international collaboration that benefits the whole RICE team
Cristina's return marks an important milestone for the whole RICE team. Her experience in the United States benefits not only her, but our entire organization. Its broader vision, stronger international network and increased expertise in methane emissions management are valuable assets for our future projects.
This mission, carried out as part of the RICEAcademyprogram, illustrates the importance of the international exchange of skills and know-how to support our energy transition strategy. By working with industry leaders like GTI Energy, we are strengthening our ability to innovate and offer concrete solutions for the decarbonization of the gas industry.
Towards new horizons with GTI Energy
We would like to thank Methane Mitigation Summit Series for their hospitality and GTI Energy for their ongoing collaboration. Together, we are building solutions for a more sustainable energy future, aligning our efforts to reduce methane emissions and improve gas industry practices.
We look forward to continuing this fruitful collaboration and putting Cristina's new skills to good use in our next projects.
