Lawmakers Call for Equal Standards
Starting January 2027, companies importing oil and gas into the European Union will have to follow strict monitoring, reporting, and verification requirements tied to methane emissions from their suppliers. A group of 24 US lawmakers has urged the EU not to grant exemptions to American energy producers if domestic standards fail to meet the bloc’s level of enforcement or accuracy.
In a letter obtained by Euronews, the lawmakers describe methane—a potent greenhouse gas up to 30 times stronger than carbon dioxide over the short term—as a key target for preventing wasteful venting and flaring of natural gas. They stress that consistent rules for all suppliers are essential to reduce trade barriers and reward producers who invest in proven methane-reduction technologies.
EU Offers Flexibility, Not Exemptions
The European Commission recently outlined two ways to simplify implementation of its methane regulation, which has required importers to trace the origin of oil and gas since May 2025. One approach allows third-party verification of emissions at production sites, while another uses a “trace and claim” system that tracks each fuel shipment digitally through the supply chain.
Officials say these options do not alter the law’s core requirements. A Commission spokesperson confirmed that no exemptions are planned, emphasizing the EU’s commitment to the regulation while assisting industry in adapting to its rules. “We are designing a pragmatic implementation, considering energy security, and industry has engaged,” said Anna-Kaisa Itkonen.
US Industry Faces Uncertainty
The US Environmental Protection Agency strengthened methane rules in 2024 to align more closely with EU standards. However, in 2025, the agency delayed and suspended several reporting and mitigation requirements, creating uncertainty for American exporters.
Jonathan Banks of the Clean Air Task Force described the lawmakers’ letter as evidence of growing transatlantic support for stronger methane controls. “Companies that have already invested in emissions management gain a competitive advantage. Strong, enforceable standards like the EU Methane Regulation reward that investment,” he said.
Methane, released during fossil fuel production and livestock digestion, is a major driver of climate change, contributing to roughly 30% of the rise in global temperatures since the industrial revolution, according to the International Energy Agency.
