Poland Rejects EU Proposal to Transfer ETS Revenue to EU Budget

Poland's deputy climate minister Krzysztof Bolesta said the government opposes the European Commission's plan to shift 30 % of auction revenues from the EU emissions‑trading system (ETS) into the EU's own budget. He argued that the funds, currently allocated to national budgets, are needed for Poland's energy‑transition projects and should remain domestically controlled. The proposal also includes a slower reduction pace for emission allowances and a reduction in the amount of free permits after 2030.

The Commission's reform would extend the ETS to waste‑incineration plants, a change that could raise household costs for waste disposal and heating. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk welcomed the revision, saying Brussels recognizes Poland's specific challenges and grants the country a more favourable position. Climate minister Paulina Hennig‑Kloska described the changes as a "step forward" that gives member states breathing space.

Poland, together with nine other newer EU members, had previously called for a thorough ETS review to boost industrial competitiveness and economic resilience.