The new legislation, adopted with 114 votes in favour, 15 against and 3 abstentions, is the first aimed at cutting methane emissions and covers direct methane emissions from the oil, fossil gas and coal sectors, and from biomethane once it is injected into the gas network. MEPs also want the new rules to include the petrochemicals sector.

A 2030 methane emissions reduction target needed

MEPs urge the Commission to propose a binding 2030 reduction target for EU methane emissions for all relevant sectors by the end of 2025. Member states should set national reduction targets as part of their integrated national energy and climate plans.

Obligations to repair methane leaks strengthened

Operators would be obliged to submit a methane leak detection and repair programme to the relevant national authorities six months from the date of entry into force of this regulation, with MEPs demanding more frequent leak detection and repair surveys compared to what the Commission is proposing. They…