Brussels, 17 June 2025 – Yesterday’s Energy Council discussion confirmed broad alignment on the importance of cutting methane emissions and the need to support Member States in implementing the EU Methane Regulation. Crucially, the European Commission signaled that it does not support reopening the Regulation, but will address challenges within the existing framework.

Environmental Defense Fund Europe welcomes this approach. While several Member States raised concerns over implementation, particularly for importer obligations, the path forward lies in targeted support, not legislative revision.

“It’s a good thing these issues were raised, they deserve attention, and getting implementation right is in everyone’s interest,” said Flavia Sollazzo, Senior Director, EU Energy Transition, Environmental Defense Fund Europe. We are confident that valid concerns will be addressed within the Regulation. That’s the way to preserve ambition, provide certainty, and deliver impact - and it will require constructive engagement from all sides.” 

The EU Methane Regulation is a globally significant policy that applies transparent, science-based standards to both domestic production and fossil fuel imports. Tools such as MethaneSAT and other technologies make emissions tracking feasible and verifiable, supporting compliance while driving innovation and accountability.

“This is not a question of whether the Regulation is achievable, it absolutely is,” added Sollazzo. “There are always bumps in the road when implementing major policies. Many that now work well faced similar concerns at the start. The technologies and frameworks already exist - what’s needed now is a coordinated effort to help Member States and companies apply them.”

The phased design of the Regulation allows time for adaptation, and many energy companies are already preparing to comply. As implementation accelerates, EDF Europe will continue working with national authorities, the European Commission, and industry to ensure delivery is both ambitious and workable.

“Methane is one of the biggest levers we have for fast climate progress,” said Sollazzo. “Europe has led with bold regulation. Now we need to lead on implementation.” 

Further reading from EDF Europe experts: 

Strong oil & gas methane rules are essential - and achievable – by Flavia Sollazzo 
Clearing the air: The EU’s methane regulation is a climate solution - not a trade pawn – by Kristina Mohlin