IEA: Methane Reduction Measures Could Deliver 200 Billion Cubic Metres of Gas Annually
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Methane emissions from the energy sector remained at extremely high levels during 2025, with no clear signs of a global decline, warns the latest report from the International Energy Agency (IEA). However, the same analysis shows that solutions exist – and their implementation could bring significant benefits not only for the climate but also for energy security.
The “Global Methane Tracker 2026” report states that applying already available measures to reduce methane emissions globally could provide as much as 200 billion cubic metres of natural gas per year. That amount is significant, especially at a time when the market is shaken by crises and supply disruptions.
Data shows that a large part of the problem is concentrated in a relatively small number of countries – as much as 70% of methane emissions from fossil fuels come from just ten largest emitters. At the same time, the differences between the best and worst practices are enormous, which means that the scope for improvement exists and is technically achievable.
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Particularly important is that many solutions are already known and financially viable. About 70% of emissions could be reduced using existing technologies, and a significant portion even at no additional cost, as captured methane can be reused as an energy source. The greatest potential lies in oil and gas operations, where most leaks and losses occur.
The methane issue is gaining weight also due to the current energy crisis. Following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which temporarily removed a significant portion of global LNG supply from the market, every additional cubic metre becomes precious. According to estimates, just by quickly implementing basic measures in certain countries, about 15 billion cubic metres of gas could be secured in the short term, while the long-term potential would be many times greater.
As Chief Energy Economist Tim Gould points out, setting targets is no longer enough – the key lies in concrete implementation. Methane is not just an environmental problem, but also a matter of energy stability, especially at a time when the world is searching for new sources of supply.
Encouragingly, emission monitoring technology is advancing rapidly. A growing number of satellites enable more precise detection of major leak sources, giving governments and companies the tools to respond more quickly. At the same time, more countries are introducing stricter regulations, particularly in the oil and gas sector, to systematically address this problem.
Although ambitions have grown in recent years, the report clearly shows that the biggest challenge is implementation. This will determine whether the potential for reducing methane emissions remains unused or becomes an important part of the solution to climate and energy challenges.
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