The European Commission is giving fossil fuel exporters an additional year to comply with methane regulations

The European Commission intends to give companies exporting fossil fuels to the European Union an additional year to comply with methane emissions regulations, the institution’s president, Ursula von der Leyen, announced on Tuesday in the European Parliament.

The measure is presented as a solution to reduce pressure on energy prices and support companies and consumers ahead of the cold season. “We will give exporters an additional year of flexibility regarding the methane regulations,” von der Leyen said.

The Commission president warned that companies are facing high costs, while people are struggling to pay their bills. She argued that rapid intervention is necessary, as the situation could worsen as winter approaches.

To reduce costs, Brussels will also launch a strategic dialogue on European refineries. In the coming months, the European Commission is expected to propose measures to increase the share of electricity in total energy consumption. These initiatives are part of the EU’s efforts to reduce emissions while maintaining access to affordable energy.