Six nations sign declaration against EU energy overregulation

Gas associations from Bulgaria, Greece, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic have signed a joint declaration in Sofia against energy overregulation within the European Union. The agreement establishes an informal energy alliance among these Central and Eastern European nations, representing approximately 20% of the EU population.

The signatories are calling for a more economically realistic implementation of the ETS2 emissions trading scheme, which is set to include fuels starting January 1, 2028. Industry representatives warn that the new mechanism could act as a secondary excise tax, potentially increasing fuel prices by between 20 Euro cents and 1.40 Euro per liter, with costs ultimately passed to consumers.

The declaration maintains commitment to the EU's 2050 climate neutrality goals but urges a reassessment of transport targets under REDIII and the recognition of biofuels and recycled carbon fuels as decarbonization solutions. Bulgarian government officials expressed support for the declaration, stating that the green transition should not create additional price pressure on citizens.