California Resources Corp. Secures ‘Grade A’ Methane Certification for San Joaquin Valley Assets

California Resources Corp. (NYSE: CRC), an independent oil and natural‑gas producer focused on decarbonization, announced on 25 February 2026 that it has obtained a Grade A certification from MiQ, the global methane certification and verification standard. The award covers production segments across the company’s San Joaquin Valley operations in Fresno and Kern counties, representing CRC’s third MiQ certification.

Technical Significance

The MiQ certification evaluates methane intensity and the effectiveness of mitigation measures. A Grade A rating indicates the lowest possible methane emission intensity, positioning CRC at the forefront of the industry’s shift toward cleaner, low‑methane operations. The certification applies to the majority of CRC’s production portfolio, reinforcing the company’s commitment to operating beyond regulatory requirements and to maintaining high environmental standards across its asset base.

Strategic Context

California’s energy market is increasingly driven by stringent state‑wide decarbonization mandates. CRC’s focus on carbon capture and storage (CCS), coupled with the new certification, aligns the company with California’s aggressive greenhouse‑gas reduction targets. By proving the integrity of its methane controls, CRC enhances its attractiveness to ESG‑focused investors and partners, potentially unlocking capital at lower risk premiums.

Market Reaction

Following the announcement, CRC’s share price closed at $58.28 on 23 February 2026, within 2.5 % of the 52‑week high of $60.03. The stock’s price‑earnings ratio of 13.49 reflects a valuation that remains comfortably below industry peers, suggesting room for upside as the company continues to advance its low‑emission portfolio.

Forward Outlook

With the majority of its production now verified under independently assessed standards, CRC is poised to:

  1. Accelerate Expansion – Leverage the credibility of Grade A certification to secure additional acreage and production licences, particularly in high‑potential basins that value low‑methane operators.
  2. Enhance ESG Credentials – Use the certification as a differentiator in ESG‑driven capital markets, appealing to institutional investors prioritising climate metrics.
  3. Advance CCS Initiatives – Integrate its existing CCS projects with the proven methane controls, creating a comprehensive decarbonization pathway that can attract public‑private partnerships and climate‑funding streams.

Conclusion

California Resources Corp.’s attainment of MiQ’s Grade A certification marks a decisive step toward positioning the company as a leader in low‑methane, climate‑conscious oil and gas production. The certification not only validates CRC’s operational excellence but also opens strategic avenues for growth, capital access, and continued leadership in California’s evolving energy landscape.