MEPs side with industry in vote to delay methane rules
EU lawmakers say their position balances climate ambitions with easing supplies – at a time of turmoil in energy security.
European Parliament lawmakers chose to delay EU methane regulations by three years instead of one, maintaining their stance on environmental standards. This decision comes amid heightened divisions over the extent of regulation softening amidst high energy prices, supply disruptions, and concerns about industrial competitiveness.
Parliament President Roberta Metsola emphasized that this move strengthens Europe's energy security in the face of global energy market uncertainty. The vote followed pressure from the oil and gas industry and several EU countries, who cited energy security and high prices as reasons for the delay. The European People's Party (EPP) advocated for the longer postponement, citing the challenges faced by domestic oil and gas producers, including those with older wells.
While the Greens and the Left called for the EU executive to stick to the 2029 timeline, the EPP insisted that the delay ensures greater legal certainty, allows verification systems to become fully operational, and ensures equal treatment of EU producers and importers.
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