EU Mulls One-Year Delay for Methane Emissions Rules on Oil Imports

The European Union is considering a one-year delay for its methane emissions rules on oil and gas imports, according to EU energy commissioner Dan Jorgensen. The rules, originally set to start on January 1, 2027, would require foreign suppliers to monitor and report methane emissions. Jorgensen stated that the European Commission is exploring this delay, but it will not extend beyond one year.

Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, is the second-largest contributor to climate change after carbon dioxide. The EU's methane law, the first of its kind globally, aims to reduce these emissions. However, political pressure has grown since the Iran war disrupted global energy supplies, raising concerns about fuel availability this winter.

Jorgensen mentioned that EU governments would need to ensure they are ready to enforce the rules once the delay ends. The Commission has not confirmed when it will propose changes to the law, but some EU officials expect this to happen next week. Any changes would require approval from both EU member states and the European Parliament.

French President Emmanuel Macron and around a dozen other EU countries, along with the US, have urged the bloc to pause or roll back the law. Some countries, including Czechia and Italy, have called for a three-year delay. Supporters of a postponement argue that companies are not ready to comply and could divert liquefied natural gas (LNG) cargoes away from Europe to avoid penalties.