Mihai Tudose, a Romanian MEP from the Socialists and Democrats group, has asked the European Commission whether it plans to assess the impact and appropriateness of introducing the Emissions Trading System 2 (ETS2) in 2028, given the current severe energy crisis. The question, submitted on 10 April 2026, warns that the crisis—described by the International Energy Agency as more severe than the 1970s oil shocks and the Ukraine war combined—could decimate purchasing power and competitiveness if fossil fuel taxes are increased on top of existing pressures.
Tudose's parliamentary question highlights that supply disruptions and destruction of production capacities in the Gulf region have hit sectors like petrochemicals and fertilisers, driving up food prices. He argues that implementing ETS2, which would extend carbon pricing to buildings and road transport, could exacerbate the economic strain on households and businesses.
The question contains a concrete request: the Commission should conduct an assessment factoring in the market shocks before proceeding with ETS2's planned 2028 start. This reflects a policy orientation toward caution and flexibility, prioritising economic stability over rapid climate action in the short term.
Under EU rules, the Commission must respond within approximately six weeks. Its answer will signal whether it is open to delaying or adjusting ETS2 in light of the crisis, or whether it maintains the current timeline. The outcome could affect EU consumers facing higher energy costs, businesses in energy-intensive sectors, and the EU's climate credibility.