EU proposes one-year delay to methane rules for oil and gas imports

The European Commission on Wednesday proposed a one-year delay to the European Union's methane emissions rules for oil and gas imports, Reuters reported.The rules, scheduled to take effect on January 1, 2027, would require foreign oil and gas suppliers to monitor and report methane emissions associated with their supplies to the EU.The proposal follows pressure from governments, including France and the United States, amid concerns over energy supplies and compliance requirements.France had urged the European Commission to postpone the methane rules, while the United States and energy companies also raised concerns about their impact on fuel supplies and importers' compliance obligations.More than a dozen EU member states, including Germany, had called for a delay or suspension, amid concerns that the requirements could create additional costs and legal uncertainty for suppliers.The proposed delay comes as Europe faces tighter gas markets and concerns over energy security.