Germany has joined growing opposition to the European Union’s planned methane emissions rules, warning on Friday that the measures could disrupt imports of liquefied natural gas and petroleum products, including jet fuel.
Speaking ahead of an EU energy ministers’ meeting, German Economy Minister Katherina Reiche said the regulations, due to take effect from next year, could threaten the country’s energy security by restricting fuel imports from 2027.
The EU law requires suppliers of imported oil and gas to monitor and verify methane emissions, as part of the bloc’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and tackle climate change.
Germany is backing a proposal by 12 EU member states, including Italy, the Czech Republic and the Netherlands, to postpone the implementation of the rules by three years or suspend them temporarily.
The pushback follows similar concerns from industry groups and the United States, which argue the regulations could complicate gas shipments to Europe.
However, some energy analysts and environmental groups dispute those claims, saying sufficient compliant fuel supplies remain available and the rules should not significantly affect imports.
In response to mounting criticism, the European Commission has proposed waiving penalties for companies that fail to meet the requirements while keeping the legislation intact.
EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen said Brussels was willing to simplify implementation but ruled out rewriting the methane regulation, describing it as a key element of the bloc’s climate agenda.
The debate comes as Europe’s energy market remains under pressure from disruptions linked to the Iran conflict, which has driven up jet fuel prices following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz.
Although Middle Eastern imports account for about one-fifth of Europe’s jet fuel demand, increased refinery output within Europe and additional supplies from the United States and Nigeria have so far helped offset potential shortages.