EU postpones methane regulation to ease energy crisis burden

The European Union has decided to postpone its methane regulation by one year to ease the financial burden on energy exporters amid soaring fuel prices. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced the delay during a speech to the European Parliament, stating that the flexibility would help avoid additional costs during the ongoing energy crisis. The regulation, originally set to take effect in January 2027, was delayed to prevent further strain on supply and prices.

Von der Leyen emphasized that tackling high energy costs is a priority for the EU. She mentioned that the bloc is working on short-term measures tailored to specific national situations and is focused on securing supplies while reducing prices. The decision to delay the methane regulation aligns with recent hints from EU officials, including European Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen, who suggested the postponement to ensure market stability.

The EU's executive arm is also launching a strategic dialogue on European refineries to address the current fuel crisis and record-high gasoline and diesel prices. Von der Leyen acknowledged the pressure on businesses and consumers, particularly as winter approaches. The postponement of the methane regulation was supported by major oil and gas suppliers to the EU, including the United States and Qatar, who argued that the regulation could negatively impact supply security and prices.