The European Commission wants to use the EU Emissions Trading System to bring down energy prices. But a non-paper shows the German government is skeptical that the ETS is the right tool and prefers to rely on proven measures instead.
By Lukas Knigge
Starting in 2026, the European Commission plans to make sharp cuts to free emissions allowances granted to industry. Benchmarks for process heat and fuels are set to fall by 34%, although some sectors will be exempt from the reductions.
By Lukas Knigge
The European Emissions Trading System is set to undergo reform. A study by PIK now shows that integrating facilities that capture CO₂ could stimulate investment and have a price-dampening effect in the long term. However, the costs of the methods examined remain uncertain.
By Lukas Bayer
Under pressure from member states and industry, the European Commission has taken action sooner than originally planned. On Wednesday, it presented initial plans on how to make the Emissions Trading System more flexible.
By Lukas Knigge
The German government and the European Commission are pursuing different strategies to lower energy prices. While Germany is aiming for a business-friendly implementation of the Methane Regulation, Brussels is planning regulatory adjustments to the ETS.
By Manuel Berkel and Lukas Knigge
During the debate on energy prices in the European Parliament, various proposals for changes to the emissions trading system were put forward. The Liberals called for coordinated energy procurement so as to curb speculation.
By Manuel Berkel
Last week, the member states tasked the European Commission with revising ETS 1. However, it must proceed with caution so as not to undermine the system’s very foundations.
By Lukas Knigge and Alex Veit
Ahead of the summit, two areas of contention are emerging: Some member states are insisting on easing emissions trading rules, while others refuse to make any concessions. Regarding “Buy European,” demands from Paris for even more preferential criteria are also causing controversy.
By Lukas Knigge, Stephan Israel and Markus Grabitz
The energy crisis resulting from the war in Iran has intensified the debate over the European Emissions Trading System. In addition to EU environment ministers, heads of state and government will also address the ETS on Thursday.
By Lukas Knigge
Viktor Orbán remains unyielding. Even the initiative by the Commission and the Council to assist in repairing the Druzhba pipeline has not broken the deadlock over the loan to Ukraine.
By Stephan Israel, Markus Grabitz, Manuel Berkel and Lukas Knigge
