EU grants Czech Republic and allies a one-year postponement of methane rules

The European Commission has approved a one-year deferral of key obligations under the EU methane emissions regulation, following a joint request from the Czech Republic and other countries. Czech Prime Minister Babiš emphasized the need for reliable gas supplies to keep factories running and to protect consumers during winter. The regulation, which came into force in August 2024, aims to curb methane leaks from oil and gas extraction and imports by requiring detailed monitoring and reporting.

Some member states warned that the required infrastructure for measurement and independent verification is lacking in third-party supplier nations, a concern heightened by the recent energy market turmoil linked to conflict in the Middle East and disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. The Commission had previously only advised states to postpone penalties for non-compliance, but now grants a full-year delay for the contested provisions.