Greece and Nine Other EU States Push Back Against ETS2 Carbon Levy on Transport and Heating Fuels

Ten European Union member states, led by Italy and Poland and including Greece, have formally asked the European Commission to reconsider the planned ETS2 carbon pricing scheme for transport and heating fuels. The coalition argues the new levy would create an unfair financial burden on households during a period of economic and geopolitical strain. The EU has already delayed the start of ETS2 to 2028, but this new push could force further changes or even a full review. The group is also calling for more free carbon allowances for industry without strict decarbonization conditions, which puts them at odds with the Commission's current approach. Supporters of ETS2, including Germany and Sweden, say the scheme is critical for driving investment in cleaner transport and home heating and that the revenues will help households transition. The Commission has said it does not want to reopen negotiations before the scheme launches, but the proposal could still be amended during talks between member states and the European Parliament.