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SouthStar Energy Services and MiQ's MethaneScout™ Platform

In an impressive stride towards sustainability, SouthStar Energy Services has established itself as a leader by becoming the first retail energy marketer in the U.S. to pilot a cutting-edge emissions tracking tool known as MiQ's MethaneScout™. Announced on June 4, 2025, this initiative aims to improve the transparency of greenhouse gas emissions associated with the company’s natural gas supply chains.

Developed by MiQ, a prominent player in methane emissions certification, MethaneScout™ is designed to assess emissions effectively using qualified data sources detailed within MiQ's Supply Chain Emissions Protocol. This marks a significant step forward for SouthStar as it continues to commit to providing cleaner energy solutions and enhancing its operational transparency.

Michael Braswell, the CEO of SouthStar Energy Services, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, stating, “SouthStar is committed to a sustainable future, which includes supporting lower-emissions natural gas.” He emphasized that the MethaneScout™ tool would not only streamline emissions tracking but also bolster their leadership in providing environmentally-friendly energy delivery methods.

The launch of MethaneScout™ arrives amidst growing discussions at industry events like CERAWeek, emphasizing the urgent demand for increased clarity within natural gas supply chains. According to Georges Tijbosch, CEO of MiQ, the complexities of the gas and LNG supply chains necessitate a standardized, data-driven approach, a gap that MethaneScout™ effectively fills, ensuring verifiable and comprehensive emissions transparency.

Understanding MethaneScout™

MethaneScout™ represents an innovative emissions-tracking platform that empowers gas marketers, regulators, and end-users to evaluate enhanced emissions data across all stages of the natural gas and LNG supply chains. The platform leverages the MiQ Supply Chain Emissions Protocol, ensuring that data is compiled and assessed for reliability using Data Quality Indicators (DQIs). These indicators are based on principles and standards defined by ISO requirements for lifecycle assessments, underscoring the importance of using recent, geographically relevant, and verified data.

By emphasizing a rigorous approach to data collection and assessment, MethaneScout™ underlines the crucial need for high-quality emissions data as the energy sector moves forward. It allows natural gas customers to make informed sourcing decisions based on a detailed understanding of their emissions footprint, regardless of the complexity of supply chains.

SouthStar Energy Services: A Commitment to Sustainability

Founded and operated under the banner of Southern Company Gas, SouthStar Energy Services is committed to transforming the retail energy landscape with a focus on lower-emission solutions. The company operates various brands, including Georgia Natural Gas®, Ohio Natural Gas®, and Pennsylvania EnergySM, ensuring a broad reach across multiple markets.

In aligning itself with MiQ’s innovative platform, SouthStar not only demonstrates its dedication to user accountability in the natural gas sector but positions itself at the forefront of the energy transition. This partnership serves as a strong statement of intent to lead by example in reducing carbon emissions.

Looking Ahead: A Sustainable Future

As we approach a pivotal moment in the energy industry, the successful pilot of MethaneScout™ sets the stage for a full market launch anticipated in the summer of 2025. This initiative reflects a broader commitment from the industry to embrace transparency, enhance sustainability practices, and adapt to the evolving demands of consumers who prioritize environmental responsibility.

In conclusion, the collaboration between SouthStar Energy Services and MiQ highlights the innovative steps being taken to track and reduce methane and greenhouse gas emissions effectively. With MethaneScout™, both organizations are paving the way for a sustainable energy future while enhancing operational transparency, ultimately fostering an energy landscape that prioritizes accountability and environmental stewardship.