The European Parliament’s rapporteur for the review of the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS), Peter Liese (EPP, Germany), and the shadow rapporteurs of the other political groups held their first meeting since the presentation of Mr Liese’s draft report in Strasbourg on Wednesday 9 March.
According to information gathered by EUROPE, their discussions focused on the modalities of the extension of the ETS to the maritime sector, including the scope.
While the European Commission had proposed to cover 100% of emissions from ship voyages (with a gross tonnage of more than 5000 t) within the European Economic Area (EEA) and 50% of emissions from all voyages starting or ending outside the EEA (see EUROPE 12867/3, 12762/1), MEPs are reported to have agreed a compromise of 100% coverage of emissions (whether for voyages within the EEA or voyages to/from a country outside the EEA), but with the possibility of bilateral agreements and subject to progress in the International Maritime Organization (IMO).
They also reportedly reached a compromise to extend the Commission’s original proposal to methane and nitrous oxide emissions, rather than just CO2 emissions. Carbon black emissions will be included at a later stage.
The political groups also broadly support the creation of an ‘Oceans Fund’, funded by the additional revenues from the extension of the ETS to the maritime sector, which would aim to invest in decarbonising the sector.
On the other hand, the question of a special clause for vessels sailing in the icy waters of the Arctic Ocean (which consume more fuel) continues to be a problem.
Regarding implementation, negotiators reportedly discussed the possibility of including all emissions from the sector in the ETS from 2024. The Commission wanted to follow a gradual process to achieve full application of the ETS to the maritime sector in 2026. (Original version in French by Damien Genicot)