The Czech Republic has officially submitted demands to the European Commission seeking changes to the emissions trading system for transport and building heating, known as ETS 2. In a significant show of solidarity, 17 other European Union member states have joined the Czech initiative, according to the Ministry of Environment.
Among the key requests, the coalition of nations is asking for regular publication of information regarding the pace of renewable energy implementation. They’re also pushing for mechanisms that would limit price fluctuations in the emissions allowance market – a move aimed at creating more stability for businesses and consumers alike.
The Czech Republic’s original proposal to cancel or postpone the ETS 2 system failed to gain sufficient support within the EU. “The Czech Republic is therefore proceeding step by step and has prepared a joint document, a so-called non-paper, which proposes specific modifications to ETS 2,” explained Prime Minister Petr Fiala of the ODS party. The document’s backing by a qualified majority of EU states “clearly shows that our concerns are not isolated,” he added.
Several influential European nations have thrown their weight behind the initiative, including Germany, Italy, Spain, Poland, Austria, and Belgium. This broad coalition represents a significant portion of the EU’s economic and political power, potentially giving the proposal substantial momentum.
“We are doing everything possible to ensure that the EU’s climate policy is not only ambitious but also socially acceptable, economically reasonable, and doesn’t negatively impact our households or businesses,” Fiala emphasized, highlighting the delicate balance between environmental goals and economic realities.