Regulatory Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Compliance in Power Infrastructure

The global energy transition is pushing utilities and grid operators into the spotlight. Power infrastructure is not only essential to modern life—it is also one of the most scrutinized sectors when it comes to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. As regulators at every level increase demands for accountability, compliance has shifted from an environmental responsibility to a core business priority.

At the heart of these efforts lies the need to accurately measure, reliably report, and proactively reduce emissions—particularly of high-impact gases like sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆). With its extraordinary warming potential and widespread use in high-voltage equipment, SF₆ is a top compliance focus across jurisdictions worldwide.

In-Gas Direct partners with utilities to meet these challenges head-on. By combining DILO’s industry-leading technology with our field expertise, we deliver comprehensive services that simplify compliance, strengthen reporting, and protect both the environment and utility reputations.

Understanding GHG Emissions and Why SF₆ Matters

Greenhouse gases trap heat in the atmosphere, fueling global warming and climate change. The most widely recognized include:

• Carbon dioxide (CO₂): the most prevalent GHG, primarily from fossil fuel combustion.
• Methane (CH₄): released from natural gas systems, agriculture, and landfills; has ~25 times the GWP of CO₂.
• Nitrous oxide (N₂O): often linked to agricultural practices; ~298 times the GWP of CO₂.
• Fluorinated gases: synthetic, powerful greenhouse gases with high GWPs—SF₆ being the most concerning in power infrastructure.

While CO₂ dominates the public narrative, SF₆ demands attention in the utility sector. Over a 100-year period, SF₆ has a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 23,500, and it can persist in the atmosphere for over 1,000 years. Because of its insulating and arc-quenching properties, SF₆ is widely used in gas-insulated switchgear (GIS) and other high-voltage applications. This combination—critical use but extreme impact—places SF₆ at the center of regulatory focus.

Scopes of Emissions: Where SF₆ Falls

GHG emissions are categorized into three “scopes”:

• Scope 1: Direct emissions from owned or controlled sources. For utilities, this includes fugitive SF₆ leaks from GIS equipment.
• Scope 2: Indirect emissions from purchased electricity, heat, or steam.
• Scope 3: Other indirect emissions across the value chain, such as supplier or contractor activities.

Because utilities directly handle SF₆, its emissions fall squarely into Scope 1. This makes rigorous monitoring, inventory management, and reporting critical for compliance.

Compliance Frameworks: U.S., EU, and Global

Utilities must meet a complex array of regulatory frameworks that vary by jurisdiction:

• United States: The EPA’s Greenhouse Gas Reporting Program (GHGRP) Subpart DD mandates annual reporting of SF₆ emissions from electrical transmission and distribution equipment. State agencies—including CARB (California) and MassDEP (Massachusetts)—layer on additional requirements.
• European Union: The EU F-Gas Regulation sets strict quotas and phasedown schedules for SF₆ and other fluorinated gases, pushing companies toward better containment, leak detection, and adoption of alternatives.
• Global Standards: International frameworks like ISO 14064 and the GHG Protocol provide standardized methods for emissions accounting, often used by multinational utilities for consistency and audit readiness.

The stakes are high: missed deadlines, underreporting, or failed audits can result in financial penalties, permit delays, legal exposure, and reputational harm—all while ESG performance is increasingly tied to investor confidence.

Why SF₆ Is a High-Impact Compliance Priority

SF₆’s unique characteristics make it invaluable but also risky:

• Essential role: SF₆ provides exceptional dielectric strength and arc-quenching capability in GIS.
• Leak risk: Fugitive emissions can occur during equipment aging, routine maintenance, or gas refilling.
• Detection challenges: Leaks are often invisible and require specialized tools to detect.

Without robust monitoring and management, utilities risk underreporting, exceeding emissions thresholds, and facing compliance penalties.

How In-Gas Direct Helps Utilities Meet GHG Demands

As DILO Company’s exclusive service partner in North America, In-Gas Direct provides the hands-on expertise utilities need to bridge the gap between regulatory requirements and real-world operations.

On-Site Leak Detection Services

Our trained technicians deploy advanced tools such as DILO’s LEAKSPY SF₆ Detector and room monitoring systems to identify even the smallest leaks. Routine system audits help utilities detect problems early, minimize emissions, and stay ahead of compliance reporting.

SF₆ Gas Analysis & Lifecycle Tracking

Using DILO’s multi-parameter gas analyzers, we test gas for purity, moisture, and decomposition by-products. These insights ensure gas is safe, reusable, and compliant—while supporting zero-emission lifecycle management.

Real-Time Monitoring

Continuous monitoring through DILO’s room monitors gives utilities visibility into gas concentrations in GIS rooms. Automated alerts notify operators before leaks escalate into violations.

Full-Service GHG Reporting Support

Compliance doesn’t end with detection—it depends on accurate documentation and timely reporting. In-Gas Direct offers end-of-year reporting services for EPA Subpart DD and state-level programs, ensuring utilities meet every deadline with confidence.

From Detection to Declaration: Closing the Reporting Loop

Accurate GHG reporting requires consistent processes from field data collection through final submission. This often includes:

• Detailed equipment and cylinder records
• Gas usage logs tracking transfers, fills, and removals
• Leak reports and corrective actions
• Verification against EPA, CARB, and local requirements

In-Gas Direct simplifies this entire process by combining expert field service with administrative support—so utilities can close the loop from detection to declaration without gaps.

The Cost of Non-Compliance

The consequences of non-compliance can be severe:

• Financial: Heavy fines for inaccurate reporting or unmanaged leaks.
• Operational: Delayed permits or project approvals.
• Reputational: Loss of investor confidence in ESG performance.

As carbon pricing and emissions penalties expand, compliance is no longer just about avoiding fines—it’s about protecting profitability and long-term sustainability.

Partnering with In-Gas Direct for a Compliant, Sustainable Future

SF₆ may remain essential for high-voltage operations, but its environmental footprint demands strict oversight. In-Gas Direct helps utilities meet that challenge by pairing DILO’s cutting-edge equipment with our exclusive service expertise, ensuring emissions are minimized and compliance is assured.

With In-Gas Direct as your partner, you can:

• Detect and prevent costly leaks
• Verify gas integrity throughout its lifecycle
• Streamline GHG reporting for EPA and state programs
• Protect your operations, reputation, and bottom line