The European Union is stepping up efforts to curb methane emissions across global energy supply chains, arguing that cutting the potent greenhouse gas is critical not only for climate goals but also for energy security, the EU Commissioner for Energy said on Tuesday.
Speaking at a G7 methane action event, Dan Jorgensen said the ongoing energy crisis had exposed Europe's heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels, underscoring the need for cleaner, domestically produced energy.
"The current energy crisis is a stark reminder that Europe is too dependent on imported fossil fuels, and that our way forward is more homegrown energy," said Jorgensen.
He called on the EU to tackle emissions tied to energy imports, noting that large volumes of gas are still being wasted globally.
The International Energy Agency estimates that more than 350 billion cubic meters of gas were lost worldwide in 2024 through flaring, venting and leaks, Jorgensen said, calling the figure a "sobering" indicator of inefficiency in the global energy system.
"Every cubic metre that is leaked heats the planet, instead of a home; It reduces crop yields, instead of prices; And it weakens energy sovereignty, instead of strengthening it," he said, adding that methane abatement and energy security should be treated as "the same priority."
Jorgensen's remarks come as Europe continues to recalibrate its energy strategy after the outbreak of the Middle East conflict, which has roiled global markets.
The EU's Methane Regulation, which introduces binding rules on measuring, reporting and verifying emissions, will apply both domestically and to imported energy.
The European Commission plans to publish recommendations clarifying how the rules should be implemented across complex supply chains and how penalties can be applied without disrupting supply.
Meanwhile, Jorgensen said European ministers have backed a pragmatic approach to ensure the regulation does not threaten energy security or trade flows.
He emphasised that methane-reduction efforts must be global, noting that frameworks such as the United Nations Environment Programme's Oil and Gas Methane Partnership 2.0 serve as a benchmark for emissions transparency.
The EU is also encouraging wider participation in the Global Methane Pledge, which it co-leads with Canada, and supporting additional initiatives such as a UK-backed statement ahead of COP30 aimed at sharply reducing methane emissions in the fossil fuel sector.