Mirian Gom 
ABUJA, Nigeria – Major energy exporters including Nigeria, the United States and Qatar are urging the European Union to rewrite its planned methane rules, warning that the regulations could threaten gas supplies to Europe and increase the risk of winter energy shortages.
In a joint letter sent to EU leaders on Wednesday, the energy ministers of Nigeria, the U.S., Qatar and Algeria called for a pause and targeted amendments to the EU methane rules, arguing that suppliers have no practical route to comply before the regulations take effect next year.
“Importers have already begun the process of purchasing oil and natural gas that will be stored for delivery in 2027, and as of now, there is no viable path to compliance with the regulation,” the letter stated.
Speaking at the Reuters Global Energy Forum in New York, U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright described the EU methane rules as “crazy”, arguing that they could block liquefied natural gas imports from the United States and other allied suppliers.
“You’re going to have a meaningful risk of blackouts or heating struggles this coming winter. There’s just no reason for that,” Wright said.
The European Commission, however, insists it will not weaken the legislation.
EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen said Brussels remains open to discussions on implementation but ruled out reopening the law.
“I will not reopen it. I’m very proud of our methane regulation,” Jorgensen said.
“We’ve also experienced a lot of pressure from international companies and countries like the U.S., and the message to them is the same. We will help as much as we can in being pragmatic, but we have to stand guard of the legislation.
EU energy ministers are expected to discuss the issue on Friday.
About the Author
Oluwafunbi Bello 
Korede Abdullah