EU Weighs Emergency Steps as Energy Crisis Concerns Deepen

The European Commission is reviewing a series of measures aimed at cushioning the impact of Europe's ongoing energy crisis amid rising prices and supply concerns.

One proposal under discussion would suspend penalties tied to the EU's methane regulation for a period of one to three years. The Commission is weighing such an exemption as a way to give companies more time to comply with the rules.

At the same time, the Commission is working on an energy emergency package that places particular emphasis on kerosene and diesel supplies. The plan includes better coordination of gas storage filling and the release of oil reserves to help offset potential supply disruptions.

EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jørgensen has warned that the energy situation is "very serious" and that there is no clear end in sight to the crisis. In remarks that echoed language used during the Covid-19 pandemic, he urged Europeans to work from home where possible.

Citing rising energy prices, Jørgensen also called on citizens to travel less, writing that member states should avoid measures that would increase fuel consumption.

Taken together, the measures reflect ongoing discussions in Brussels over how to balance energy security, climate goals and the economic burden facing households and businesses as prices climb.