EU Approves Rules to Phase Out Russian Gas, LNG Imports
The new rules, outlined by the Council of the EU, include rigorous monitoring requirements, supply diversification mandates, and stiff penalties for violations. In a statement, the council said the measures cover “strict monitoring, diversification of supply and penalties for violations.”
Under the legislation, Russian gas imports will be gradually banned, starting six weeks after the law takes effect. Existing contracts can continue during a transition period to help limit market disruption and price spikes.
A full ban on LNG imports is set to take effect at the start of 2027, while pipeline gas imports will be prohibited from autumn 2027.
EU member states will be required to confirm the origin of gas before authorizing it to enter the bloc. Companies must also notify national authorities and the European Commission about any remaining contracts involving Russian gas.
By March 1, 2026, countries must submit national plans detailing how they will diversify gas supplies and mitigate risks linked to replacing Russian imports. Nations still sourcing Russian oil will similarly need to prepare diversification strategies.
The regulation imposes significant fines for non-compliance: at least €2.5 million (nearly $3 million) for individuals and €40 million ($47.5 million) for companies, or up to 3.5% of a firm’s global annual turnover.
In cases of severe energy security threats, the European Commission can suspend the ban for up to four weeks.
The commission is also expected to introduce legislation targeting the phase-out of Russian oil imports by the end of 2027.
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