Poland leads push to delay EU ETS2 emissions tax

Poland is actively campaigning to delay or halt the implementation of the ETS2, a controversial European Union emissions trading system targeting transport and heating fuels. During a meeting of EU ambassadors, the Polish delegation demanded that ETS2 be included in the ongoing revision of the ETS1 regulations. The goal is to postpone the system's entry, currently planned for 2028, until at least 2030.

This push follows a recent EU summit where Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk secured a commitment from the European Commission to update its impact assessment regarding how ETS2 affects households and the economy. Poland's position has gained support from nine other nations, including Italy, Greece, and members of the Visegrad Group.

Analysts warn that the ETS2 could significantly increase costs for consumers. While fuel importers and suppliers will formally pay the emissions fees, costs are expected to be passed entirely to end-users through higher prices for gas, coal, heating oil, and vehicle fuels. Estimates suggest that depending on energy efficiency and market prices, large, uninsulated homes could face annual cost increases of several thousand euros.