European Parliament votes to approve three-year delay on EU methane rules

European Parliament Approves Three-Year Delay on EU Methane Emissions Rules

EU Methane Emissions Rules: Background, Delays, and Implications

Parliament Vote and Extended Delay

BRUSSELS, Oct 22 (Reuters) - The European Parliament voted on Thursday to approve a three-year delay to the EU's methane emissions rules for oil and gas imports, marking a longer-than-expected delay after pressure from governments including France and the United States.

Lobbying Efforts and Influencing Countries

Up until a few weeks ago, the EU was set for a one-year delay, but lobbying had intensified to push for a three-year delay, including from the Czech Republic and Italy.

Original Timeline and Rule Requirements

The rules, originally due to take effect on January 1, 2027, would have required foreign oil and gas suppliers to the EU to monitor and report ​methane, a potent greenhouse gas. 

International Reactions and Industry Concerns

The United States, Europe's biggest liquefied natural gas supplier, had already warned the EU in June that the methane law could disrupt fuel deliveries, a stance backed by ‌companies including oil ⁠major ExxonMobil.

Parliament’s Proposal for Importers

"Under Parliament's proposal, importers of crude oil, natural gas and coal would have until May 31, 2031, to show that supply contracts concluded or renewed since August 4, 2024 cover only fuel subject to monitoring, reporting and verification measures equivalent to EU rules," lawmakers said in a statement.

Methane’s Role in Climate Change

Methane is the second-largest contributor to climate change, after carbon dioxide.

Next Steps in the Legislative Process

Following this vote, lawmakers will now have to thrash out a final decision on the deadline with EU governments.

(Reporting by Jan Strupczewski and Sudip Kar-Gupta;Editing by Foo Yun Chee and Nina Chestney)