The European Union will not amend its landmark methane regulation despite it being raised during trade talks with the United States, an EU official said on Tuesday. However, the bloc signalled some flexibility in how the rules are implemented, particularly in reporting requirements.
Methane, a powerful greenhouse gas and the second-largest contributor to climate change after carbon dioxide, has become a focal point of EU environmental policy. As of this year, the EU requires oil and gas importers to monitor and report methane emissions linked to their imports.
First regulation of its kind in the world
“We stand firmly by this regulation, it is the first of its kind,” the official told Reuters. While the EU is not reopening the legislation for changes, the official noted, “Basically within the framework of the regulation, we can be flexible in its implementation for instance in reporting.”
The EU’s methane rule has come under scrutiny in ongoing EU-U.S. trade talks, with energy-related provisions yet to be finalised in a joint statement expected soon. Despite pressure, the EU remains committed to enforcing the regulation.
Concerns from suppliers already addressed
In June, some EU member states had discussed the possibility of asking Brussels to simplify aspects of the law. In response, the European Commission has already conducted technical workshops with gas suppliers to address concerns and smooth implementation.
The regulation aims to reduce methane leaks from gas infrastructure, a major source of emissions in the energy sector.
