From Culprit to Hero: The evolving story of Methane Flux in Hydroelectric Reservoirs

Results of recent measurements of methane in stable interior parts of Brazil, where subsurface strata have very little organic matter, are found to be compatible with the hypothesis of its deep crustal origin. Analysis of observational data indicates that seepage through submerged fault systems contribute to methane flux in hydroelectric reservoirs. The main conclusion is that hydroelectric reservoirs impede, rather than promote, natural flow of methane of mantle origin. Consequently, supposed impacts of global warming by methane flux in hydroelectric reservoirs are unfounded.