The EU presently imports over 80% of its gas from countries like Norway, the United States, Algeria, and Russia, with the latter experiencing a significant reduction in deliveries last year.
France has proposed a phased introduction of methane emissions restrictions on gas imports into the European Union. This move aims to utilize Europe’s substantial fossil fuel purchasing power to address the significant greenhouse gas impact of methane, which is the second-largest contributor to climate change after carbon dioxide. While methane has a more immediate and potent warming effect in the short term, rapid reduction in its emissions is critical to restraining global warming.
Currently, European Union member states and legislators are in discussions regarding a law that would compel oil and gas producers within Europe to cease deliberate methane releases and rectify leaks in their infrastructure, through which this potent greenhouse gas can escape into the atmosphere.
There is a push for these regulations to encompass imported fossil fuels starting in 2026. Up until now, EU nations have been hesitant about this extension, but a document obtained by Reuters reveals that France has now expressed support and is endeavoring to garner backing from other member states.
France contends, as stated in the document shared with fellow EU countries, that “Imposing methane leakage criteria on European hydrocarbon imports is a climate imperative, does not raise measurement difficulties, and is part of a global dynamic.” It further emphasizes, “The EU cannot stay behind the curve on this issue.”
According to France’s proposal, importers would need to demonstrate that 70% of their fossil fuel imports conform to EU methane regulations from 2026 onwards. This percentage would progressively rise each year, reaching 100% compliance by 2029.
While it remains uncertain how many nations are in favor of this proposal, early responses suggest that Germany, the largest gas purchaser in Europe, and Poland have previously indicated willingness to extend EU regulations to cover fossil fuel imports.
Conversely, Hungary and Romania have advocated for less stringent rules. Some countries have also raised doubts about the feasibility of enforcing EU standards abroad.
The EU presently imports over 80% of its gas from countries like Norway, the United States, Algeria, and Russia, with the latter experiencing a significant reduction in deliveries last year.
Notably, the majority of methane emissions associated with EU gas consumption occur beyond its borders. According to the non-profit Clean Air Task Force, extending EU regulations to encompass imports could potentially reduce global methane emissions within the oil and gas sector by up to 30%.
Methane is anticipated to be a prominent topic at the upcoming U.N. COP28 climate summit in November. The United Arab Emirates, hosting the conference, intends to launch a voluntary commitment to methane reduction by oil and gas companies.