Calls for Consistent Standards Across Borders
Starting January 2027, European importers of oil and gas must meet strict monitoring, reporting, and verification requirements for methane emissions from their suppliers. In response, 24 US lawmakers have urged the European Union not to grant exemptions to American energy companies if domestic standards fall short in accuracy or enforcement.
In a letter obtained by Euronews, the lawmakers described methane—a short-lived gas up to 30 times more potent than CO₂—as a major contributor to climate change and a key target for reducing wasteful flaring and venting of natural gas. They stressed that clear, consistent rules across all suppliers help prevent trade barriers and reward companies that invest in available methane-reduction technologies.
EU Offers Flexibility, But No Exemptions
The European Commission has outlined two approaches to simplify compliance. Companies can either use third-party certificates verifying emissions at production sites or adopt a digital “trace and claim” system that tracks fuel volumes through the supply chain.
Officials emphasize, however, that these adjustments do not alter the core requirements of the law. A Commission spokesperson confirmed there are no plans to provide exemptions, stating that the EU is focused on practical implementation while maintaining the law’s climate ambitions.
Uncertainty for US Energy Companies
US industry faces uncertainty after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) delayed reporting and mitigation rules in 2025, despite tightening standards in 2024. Environmental groups say this letter from US lawmakers signals a growing transatlantic push to reduce methane emissions.
Jonathan Banks of the Clean Air Task Force noted that US companies already investing in methane management gain a competitive edge under strong, enforceable standards like the EU’s regulation. Methane, produced by fossil fuel extraction and livestock digestion, contributes to roughly 30% of global warming since the industrial revolution, according to the International Energy Agency.
