Lawmakers Push for Consistent Global Standards
Starting January 2027, all companies importing oil and gas into the European Union will need to follow strict monitoring, reporting, and verification rules for methane emissions. In a letter obtained by Euronews, 24 US lawmakers urged the EU not to grant exemptions to American energy producers, even if domestic US standards fall short.
The lawmakers highlighted that methane is a short-lived but extremely potent greenhouse gas—up to 30 times more powerful than carbon dioxide over the short term. They said that clear, consistent rules are crucial to prevent wasteful flaring or venting of natural gas, reduce trade barriers, and reward companies that adopt proven methane-reduction technologies.
EU Offers Flexible Compliance Options, Not Exemptions
To make implementation easier, the European Commission has offered importers two options: use third-party certificates verifying emissions at production sites, or adopt a digital “trace and claim” system that tracks fuel through every sale until it reaches the final buyer.
However, these options do not change the law’s core requirements. A Commission spokesperson emphasized that there are no plans to grant exemptions. “Our focus is on pragmatic implementation, taking supply security into account. We are confident it will work, and industry has engaged positively,” said Anna-Kaisa Itkonen.
US Industry Faces Ongoing Uncertainty
The US Environmental Protection Agency strengthened methane rules in 2024 to align with EU standards, but in 2025 it delayed reporting requirements and pushed back mitigation measures, creating uncertainty for domestic and international producers.
Environmental experts see the EU regulation as a way to reward companies already investing in methane monitoring and emissions management. Jonathan Banks of the Clean Air Task Force said the lawmakers’ letter reflects growing “transatlantic and global consensus” on the need to curb methane, which accounts for roughly 30% of global warming since the industrial revolution, according to the International Energy Agency.
