IEA report shows methane emissions from energy sector near record highs
Methane emissions from fossil fuels remained at very high levels in 2025, with no sign they are declining globally, according to the IEA’s latest tracking update – although some countries are making progress, and the ongoing crisis in the Middle East is now highlighting the energy security benefits of abatement measures.
The Global Methane Tracker 2026 presents the IEA’s latest estimates for methane emissions from the energy sector, based on the most recent data from satellites and measurement campaigns. It also explores different abatement options, along with their associated costs. The report’s findings were launched at an international high-level event on methane action convened by France’s G7 Presidency in Paris.
In recent years, many countries and companies have announced efforts to reduce methane emissions as part of efforts to limit near-term global warming and improve air quality, with commitments to reduce methane now covering over half of global oil and gas production. However, methane emissions from the energy sector plateaued near record highs in 2025, according to the report – revealing a large implementation gap.
Yet the report notes that there is significant scope for further action. The availability and reporting of methane emissions data have increased substantially in recent years, indicating that around 70% of fossil fuel methane emissions in 2025 came from the top 10 emitting countries. Meanwhile, the methane intensity of oil and gas production varies widely across countries – with the best performers scoring more than 100 times better than the worst.
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