EU leaders met in Brussels on Friday to push for faster reforms on energy prices, market barriers, and red tape. The European Council called for decisive progress on the One Europe One Market agenda, including measures to speed up planning and permitting for energy projects. Leaders also noted the European Commission will propose a review of the EU Emissions Trading System by mid-July 2026, including the future of free allowances and industrial benchmark adjustments. This matters for carbon markets because the ETS review could reshape allowance supply and industrial coverage. The push for faster permitting and lower energy prices also signals a focus on deploying renewables and grid upgrades more quickly. The next competitiveness discussion is set for October 2026.
