Brussels, 11 September - At a time of heightened pressure around the transatlantic trade relationship, we urge European leaders to hold the line on the EU Methane Regulation. Weakening this landmark law is not in our interest. It would not strengthen energy security but undermine Europe’s ability to regulate independently in line with science and its climate goals. 

The Methane Regulation is eminently workable. Like any new law, it will require adjustments, both from the regulated industry and the implementing authorities. But the phased approach already built into the methane legislation provides flexibility for importers and their suppliers, and solutions exist for complex supply chains such as those in the U.S.  

Many U.S. and European companies are already implementing methane abatement and reporting to OGMP 2.0 standards. This framework, co-designed with industry and covering 40% of global oil and gas production, has members committed to the highest reporting standard within 3–5 years, with some already there today. Leading U.S. exporters have been developing methane measurement and reporting systems for over six years, demonstrating that American industry already has the tools and experience to meet the EU’s requirements. 

Weakened rules solve nothing. Diluting, delaying or scrapping the Regulation would not address the root causes of today’s political pressure. Instead, it would erode trust, create uncertainty for industry, and send a damaging signal that Europe’s standards can be bargained away. 

“Europe’s methane law is not a burden, it’s a safeguard — for our climate, for energy security, and for fair competition. Weakening it would send exactly the wrong signal at exactly the wrong time,” said Helen Spence-Jackson, Executive Director, EDF Europe. 

Methane abatement is one of the fastest and cheapest levers for cutting climate pollution. The EU Methane Regulation is not only central to Europe’s climate strategy, but also to its new energy security paradigm—built on transparency, traceability, and reduced dependence on unreliable suppliers. 

The methane regulation bolsters Europe’s reputation as a climate leader and needs as an energy importer. European stakeholders are correctly focused on implementation rather than undermining this critical legislation.  

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