Starting in January 2027, ETS2 will come into force. This is an extension of the European Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) that aims to reduce emissions in key sectors – transport, heating and SMEs – which have so far been excluded from the European Union’s carbon market.

ETS2 can only promote a fair energy transition if:

1. EU governments use, as indicated in the Directive, 100% of the revenues from the sale of CO2 allowances to finance policies promoting renewables and efficiency in transport and civil use, as well as to offset any cost increases for citizens and businesses. This will enable the financing of redistributive policies, making it possible for even the less well-off to access more efficient, and therefore more economical, technologies and energy uses;

2. ETS2 is integrated with current taxation in order to manage CO2 price increases on energy expenditure of households and businesses. In particular, the introduction of a national price corridor will ensure a minimum guarantee of revenue for the financing of public policies and a maximum CO2 price guarantee for consumers;

3. ETS2 is incorporated into a broader review of energy taxation that addresses current imbalances. This will make it easier and more attractive for consumers to adopt more efficient and affordable electricity solutions;

4. there are no delays in the implementation of ETS2. The ETS2 Directive provides for the establishment of a Social Climate Fund with a budget of €7 billion for Italy, which is higher than the estimated expenditure to support the most vulnerable groups. However, in the event of delays, this Fund would be reduced by €1.55 billion. In conclusion, the real benefit for citizens and businesses does not lie in rejecting the introduction of ETS2, but in structurally correcting the current imbalances in taxation and parafiscal charges on energy carriers, to which ETS2 contributes. From this perspective, ETS2 represents an opportunity to promote a fair and sustainable energy transition, making solutions accessible to all segments of the population.

In conclusion, the real benefit for citizens and businesses does not lie in rejecting the introduction of ETS2, but in structurally correcting the current imbalances in taxation and parafiscal charges on energy carriers, to which ETS2 contributes. From this perspective, ETS2 represents an opportunity to promote a fair and sustainable energy transition, making solutions accessible to all segments of the population.