Methane emissions
In the energy sector, the main challenge in cutting methane emissions is first being able to detect and quantify them. Therefore, the rules focus on measurement, reporting and verification, with strong rules on finding and repairing leaks within the EU.
The regulation builds on existing ambitious industry-led standards. The rules on measuring and reporting methane emissions build-on the Oil and Gas Methane Partnership 2.0 (OGMP 2.0) framework, which already covers 42% of global oil and gas production, to help understand the exact locations and volumes of methane emitted, allowing a shift from estimates to direct measurements of methane emissions, checked by independent verifiers.
Methane Transparency Database
In accordance with the regulation, the Commission is preparing the Methane Transparency Database, including the collection of information and the finalisation of its design. The Methane Transparency Database is scheduled to be launched in September 2026.
Oil and gas
Within the EU companies are required to frequently survey their equipment to detect leaks. If found, they need to be repaired immediately, mostly within 5 or 15 working days and monitored to ensure that repairs are successful.
The regulation also bans venting and routine flaring, allowing venting only in exceptional or unavoidable circumstances for safety reasons. It allows flaring only if re-injection, utilisation on-site or transport of the methane to a market are not technically feasible, with more restrictive rules for how it can be carried out. It also obligates EU countries to map and reduce emissions from closed and abandoned oil and gas wells.
Coal
Within the EU the regulation envisages a phase-out of venting and flaring of methane, ensuring that safety aspects in coal mines are accounted for. It also obligates EU countries to map and establish mitigation plans in the case of abandoned coal mines and inactive oil and fossil gas wells.
Imports
The regulation phases-in a number of requirements for importers over time