EU 2024/1787, the new regulation which sets out curbs on emissions from fossil fuel operations across EU Member States, has today (15 July) been published in the Official Journal of the European Union – the final step before legislation enters into force.
EU Members are now expected to begin implementing the regulation next year.
Six months after the regulation enters into force, EU member states will be required to appoint national authorities to oversee compliance with the regulation by EU oil, gas and coal operators, as well as importers and independent verifiers. In addition, the European Commission will present secondary legislation setting out the methodology EU importers will have to follow in monitoring, reporting and verifying methane emission intensities.
The regulation has been welcomed by climate NGOs. Flavia Sollazzo, Senior Director, EU Energy Transition at Environmental Defense Fund Europe (EDF Europe) said: ‘The EU's adoption of the Methane Emissions Regulation is significant progress towards slowing down climate change. It's an ambitious and ground-breaking regulation that sets comprehensive standards that address methane emissions across the entire energy supply chain. As a cornerstone of the EU Green Deal, it reaffirms the EU's commitment to combating climate change. Importantly, it signals the end of the EU outsourcing its pollution beyond its borders. By addressing emissions along its supply chain, the EU is taking responsibility for its large external methane footprint as part of its decarbonisation pathway.’
However, Sollazzo also urged: ‘Let's not forget that the regulation's success hinges entirely on rigorous implementation. The real work starts now: Holding the industry accountable is crucial, and we expect Member States to act swiftly. Immediate steps include implementing national methane emissions reporting requirements by next year, finalising import standards, and developing comprehensive monitoring, reporting, and verification (MRV) systems that extend beyond national boundaries. Additionally, transforming this regulation from policy into global climate action will require building strong international alliances to extend its impact. This isn't just about EU leadership—it's about driving a global shift in methane action and in slowing the pace of global warming.’
Helen Spence-Jackson, Executive Director at EDF Europe, added: ‘With advanced monitoring, measuring, and tracking technologies like MethaneSAT now available, policymakers, industry and the public have powerful tools at their disposal. This radical level of transparency eliminates excuses and demands immediate action. The key to success now is proper implementation, which requires collaborative efforts across sectors. Working together, we can build a comprehensive understanding of emissions and develop effective solutions that benefit everyone. This regulation is a framework for constructive collaboration, paving the way for making real progress in the fight against climate change.’
Click here to access the EU 2024/1787 regulation, hosted on the EUR-Lex website.
