A group of 11 European Union member states has called on the European Commission to postpone key elements of the bloc’s methane emissions regulations for at least three years, arguing that immediate implementation could create risks for energy supplies during a period of geopolitical uncertainty.
Led by the Czech Republic and Slovakia, the countries submitted their request ahead of a meeting of EU energy ministers in Luxembourg on June 26. The appeal comes as the European Commission considers allowing a three-year transition period during which oil and gas companies that fail to meet certain methane-related requirements would not face penalties.
The coalition argues that the Commission’s proposal does not go far enough because it would be based on non-binding guidance and could leave energy importers facing legal uncertainty when negotiating long-term contracts with foreign suppliers.
The countries stressed that they support efforts to reduce methane emissions but believe adjustments are necessary to avoid unintended consequences for Europe’s energy market. They warned that strict enforcement could discourage some international suppliers from exporting oil and gas to the EU if they are unable to meet the bloc’s monitoring and reporting requirements in the near term.
Methane is one of the most powerful greenhouse gases and is generated primarily through fossil fuel production and agriculture. According to the International Energy Agency, methane has contributed significantly to global warming since the Industrial Revolution. In 2024, the EU adopted its first comprehensive framework requiring the measurement, reporting and verification of methane emissions in the energy sector.
Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, European countries have sought to diversify energy sources while pursuing climate goals. The 11 governments argue that ongoing instability in global energy markets, including disruptions linked to tensions in the Middle East, has increased concerns about supply availability and future energy costs.
Their position has been supported by several major energy-exporting nations, including Qatar, Algeria and Nigeria, which have expressed concerns about the practical challenges of complying with the new rules. The exporting countries have warned that some suppliers may redirect shipments to markets with less stringent regulations if compliance becomes too burdensome.
Environmental groups have strongly opposed any delay. Climate advocates argue that the methane rules do not prohibit imports and already provide suppliers with a phased path toward compliance. They maintain that sufficient compliant gas supplies exist to meet European demand and warn that postponing the regulations would undermine climate objectives.
The debate has also attracted attention in the United States, where some lawmakers have urged the EU to maintain the standards and avoid exemptions that could weaken enforcement.
The discussion comes as global efforts to reduce methane emissions gain momentum. Recently, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres called on governments and energy producers worldwide to move toward near-zero methane emissions across the oil and gas supply chain, describing methane reduction as a key step in addressing climate change while strengthening long-term energy security.
