Relaxation of Methane Rules Proposed in US Oil and Gas Sector

US President Donald Trump has proposed easing methane emission regulations in the oil and natural gas sector, arguing that this move will generate cost savings. The Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) plan has been opened for public comment.

US President Donald Trump has proposed easing methane emission regulations in the oil and natural gas sector. Trump argued that these changes would provide $45 billion in cost savings for consumers and energy producers and pave the way for an additional 210 million barrels of oil production.

The Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) proposal envisions easing controls on oil and gas wells, pipelines, and processing facilities, and eliminating the Super Emitter Program, which aims to monitor large methane leaks. Additionally, plans include introducing flexible rules for low-production wells, changing standards regarding flaring practices, and modifying emission monitoring and leak repair requirements.

Rules implemented by the Biden administration in 2024 aimed to prevent approximately 58 million tons of methane emissions during the 2024-2038 period. While the US oil and gas sector stands as the industry's largest source of methane pollution, energy sector representatives supported the new proposal. Environmental organizations warned that easing the regulations could increase methane emissions. The proposal will be subject to a public comment period of at least 45 days.