European Union leaders have debated measures to address rising energy costs, but differences remain over the future of the bloc’s emissions trading system.
According to the Financial Times, several member states called for the planned expansion of emissions trading to buildings and road transport to be delayed until 2030. They argued that high energy costs are placing additional pressure on households and businesses.
Germany, France and Spain were among the countries stressing the importance of maintaining climate policies and encouraging investment in clean energy.
During the summit, leaders sought a compromise focused on assessing the impact of expanding the system. However, they did not reach an agreement to postpone the emissions rules outright.
The debate highlights the growing tension between energy affordability, industrial competitiveness and the EU’s climate targets. Governments are under pressure to ease household energy bills while continuing to pursue long-term emissions reductions.
Energy costs and the EU’s budget for the 2028–2034 period are expected to remain key issues in discussions among member states.
