22/05/2024 (Agence Europe) – On Wednesday 22 May, the ambassadors of the Member States to the European Union (Coreper) adopted the agreement between the European Parliament and the EU Council (see EUROPE 13293/5) on the regulation to reduce methane emissions from the energy sector. Applicable from 2027, this text will require operators to detect, report and repair methane leaks in accordance with rigorous criteria. It covers the production and transmission of oil, gas and coal, imposing strict controls on the release and flaring of methane. Importers of oil and gas into the EU will have to demonstrate their compliance with European monitoring and reporting standards. In addition, penalties will be imposed on importers who fail to comply with emission limits from 2030. (NP)