Council backs one-year delay to EU methane import monitoring rules

Today, the Council agreed its position on the Commission proposal for targeted amendments to the EU methane regulation. The aim is to postpone for one year specific rules related to the import of crude oil, natural gas and coal and to avoid placing additional pressure on the EU's security of supply, in view of the disruption to energy markets caused by the conflict in the Middle East.

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In its conclusions of 15 and 16 October 2026, the European Council welcomed this proposal as a targeted measure to address the impact of the current geopolitical context on global supply chains, energy security and energy and fuel prices. There are significant pressures on global energy markets, which are driving up energy prices across the EU.

More than ever, we need secure and reliable energy supplies in Europe. The Council's agreement today proposes a pragmatic approach forward, addressing the pressures in the energy market, while maintaining the EU's global leadership in reducing methane emissions.

The Irish presidency is now focused on reaching an early agreement with the European Parliament. Darragh O'Brien, Ireland's Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment Member states agreed to maintain the substance of the Commission's proposal presented on 14 October 2026, postponing the application of the following provisions by one year: According to the Council's position, the Commission will, by 30 September 2027, assess whether the necessary elements for the implementation of the reporting obligations are met.

These include the availability of a sufficient number of third-party verifiers to assess the conformity of the emission reports, and whether there are in place EU implementing rules on transferring information about methane emissions between producers and importers, as well as on equivalent third-party verification and monitoring procedures in third countries. In case any of the necessary elements do not exist, the Commission will postpone the application of import-related monitoring obligations through secondary law, as member states agreed.

The Commission could also propose changes to the methane regulation in case of continued challenges for implementation or a threat to the security of supply.

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