Methane Leaks Made Visible as Kuva’s Tech Hits Refineries

Kuva lands $5M DOE deal to scale real-time methane detection, reshaping emissions compliance for refineries

30 Jan 2025

Kuva Systems, a Boston-based emissions monitoring company, has secured a $5m award from the US Department of Energy to expand the use of its methane detection technology across refineries, as regulators increase pressure on oil and gas operators to curb leaks.

The funding will support wider deployment of Kuva’s stationary camera systems, which monitor refinery sites continuously and detect methane emissions in real time. The technology is designed to alert operators quickly to leaks, allowing faster repairs and reducing the risk of prolonged emissions.

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, and federal rules introduced in recent years have tightened requirements for its monitoring and control. US regulators now expect operators to detect and fix leaks more quickly, increasing demand for systems that provide continuous data rather than periodic inspections.

Kuva’s cameras are fixed around industrial sites and operate around the clock, offering what the company says is constant visibility of emissions without disrupting production. The systems can be integrated into existing refinery infrastructure, reducing the need for shutdowns or major retrofits.

“This isn’t just about regulatory checkboxes,” said Stefan Bokaemper, chief executive of Kuva Systems. “We’re enabling smarter, faster decisions. Visibility is power. When operators can see leaks in real time, they can prioritize and prevent bigger failures.”

The company argues that the technology could also appeal to investors, as environmental performance becomes more closely scrutinised. Clear data on emissions reductions may help operators demonstrate progress on sustainability targets and, in some cases, support participation in carbon markets.

However, the adoption of continuous monitoring systems may require investment in upgraded equipment and training for staff to respond to more frequent alerts. Older facilities in particular may face challenges integrating new digital tools into legacy systems.

With federal funding and tighter climate rules, industry analysts expect greater uptake of real-time emissions monitoring. For refinery operators, improved visibility of methane leaks is increasingly seen as both a regulatory requirement and a way to manage operational risk in a more carbon-conscious market.