The EU reaches an important deal: the central climate protection instrument must be strengthened But not all dead: several dozen fish rescued from the “Aquadom” rubble

Consumers and businesses in the EU will have to pay for carbon dioxide (CO₂) Pay. Negotiators from the EU parliament and states reached agreement early Sunday morning on a reform of EU emissions trading, as announced by the Czech presidency of the Council. This should make the main instrument of European climate protection policy significantly more effective. In addition, a new social climate fund must absorb the consequences of the energy transition for consumers.

“Emissions trading is key to achieving our climate goals,” said MEP Peter Liese (CDU), who led the negotiations for Parliament. The compromise ensures climate protection, but at the same time protects industry and citizens who cannot afford higher prices. The federal government, among others, blocked the negotiations, but the compromise was ultimately supported by a large majority, says Liese.

In concrete terms, the negotiators agreed to tighten up the existing emissions trading system in the EU. For example, companies must purchase pollution certificates if they use CO₂ expelling This should create an incentive to reduce CO₂ produce. Now the number of pollution rights must be reduced faster than previously planned, so that emissions fall faster.

In addition, free certificates for companies must be phased out by 2034. Companies that do not make an effort for the energy transition must hand in free certificates. “The worst polluters pay more and those who decarbonise are supported,” said Green MP Michael Bloss, who took part in the negotiations.

From 2027, the system will also be extended to heating buildings and transport – for both consumers and businesses. However, there is an “emergency brake”: if energy prices are particularly high, the system can be put on hold so as not to overburden consumers. In Germany, emissions trading already applies to buildings and transport.

In addition, a social climate fund must be set up from 2026, which must absorb extra expenditure for consumers as a result of the energy transition, such as rising heating costs. This should amount to a total of EUR 86.7 billion and be financed from the revenues from emissions trading and partly by the Member States. This is intended to relieve households and stimulate investments, for example in more efficient buildings or public transport.

The projects form the core of the “Fit for 55” package proposed by the European Commission in summer 2021 to combat climate change. It is intended to help EU countries reduce CO2₂-Reduce emissions by 55 percent by 2030 compared to 1990 and become carbon neutral by 2050.

The agreement still needs to be ratified by the EU parliament and states, but this is considered a formality. (sda/dpa)