09/26/2025 | News release | Distributed by Public on 09/26/2025 11:01
At Energy Transfer, our commitment to safety and environmental responsibility drives us to seek out and support technologies that enhance the integrity of our operations. One such innovation is the Falcon XL Aerial Methane Detection Technology developed by Vanguard Pipeline Inspection, LLC, a solution we've proudly championed from its earliest stages.
To date, the system has allowed us to survey more than 44,000 miles of pipeline, reinforcing its value as an impactful tool for advancing our leak detection and mitigation capabilities. This milestone reflects not only the system's scalability but also our dedication to continuous improvement in pipeline safety and emissions monitoring.
Long before the Falcon XL entered the market, Energy Transfer recognized its potential to transform aerial leak detection. We partnered with Vanguard not only as a commercial customer but also as a collaborator, providing research and development funding and offering technical guidance to help shape the system's evolution. This early involvement helped ensure the technology was tailored to meet real-world operational needs while maintaining a strong focus on safety and environmental performance.
This partnership reflects our broader strategy of investing in technologies that align with our mission to reduce emissions, protect natural resources and operate with transparency and accountability. By supporting innovation at the ground level, we're helping accelerate the development of tools that benefit the entire industry.
Vanguard's Falcon XL system is designed for fixed-wing and rotary (helicopter) aircraft, enabling methane detection during routine aerial patrols. This integration allows us to maximize the efficiency of existing flight operations while adding a powerful layer of pipeline safety and environmental monitoring. The system's ability to detect even low-level emissions makes it a valuable complement to our broader leak detection efforts.
In 2024, we expanded these efforts by launching a new initiative using an advanced laser-equipped methane leak detection technology known as tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy (TDLAS). This next-generation approach further strengthens our ability to identify and address potential issues quickly and effectively.
The impact of this collaboration was recently recognized at the Texas Oil & Gas Association's Energy Elevated Technology Showcase, held on September 4, 2025. Energy Transfer and Vanguard were honored with the Expert Commentator Pick for Most Innovative 2025 following their co-presentation at the event.
As we continue to advance our safety and environmental initiatives, partnerships like the one with Vanguard Pipeline Inspection exemplify how innovation and collaboration can drive meaningful progress. We're proud to support technologies that not only improve our operations but also contribute to a more responsible energy future.