The European Commission is set to recommend that member states delay by three years the imposition of penalties on energy importers who fail to comply with EU methane emission rules. The decision comes after warnings from the United States, Qatar and other gas-producing countries that strict enforcement could disrupt liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplies to Europe and drive up prices.
According to sources cited by Bloomberg, the Commission had resisted pressure for months but ultimately yielded to demands from Washington, the oil and gas industry, and more than half of EU member states. Under the planned recommendation, fines would be suspended for the years 2027–2029, except in cases of large-scale fraud.
Pressure from the US and industry forces a temporary retreat
The dispute centres on legislation adopted earlier this year, which from 2027 requires all fossil fuel imports to the EU to meet strict monitoring, reporting and verification standards. From 2030, shipments that exceed a methane intensity threshold will face penalties of up to 20 percent of a company’s annual global turnover.
– We cannot afford to lose our LNG suppliers at a time when we are trying to replace Russian gas – said a senior EU energy official who spoke on condition of anonymity. – The delay gives everyone breathing room to sort out technical issues.
The United States, now Europe’s largest LNG supplier, had warned that its exports would be diverted to other markets if the EU did not soften its stance.
Uncertainty remains over implementation and verification
Industry experts argue the three-year postponement is not enough. They point to a lack of accredited verification bodies and approved protocols as the main bottleneck.
– The proposed delay is insufficient and risks leaving importers in legal limbo – commented Maria Kowalska, an energy analyst at a Brussels-based think tank. – Without a functioning verification system, even the delayed deadlines may be impossible to meet.
The debate unfolds as the EU struggles to lower persistently high energy costs, diversify supply amid Middle East tensions, and end its dependence on Russian energy. Member states and the European Parliament will now debate the Commission’s recommendation, with final adoption expected in the coming weeks.
Źródło: WNP.PL, Fot. MashaSay/Shutterstock
