Dutch agencies: EU climate rollback barely cuts energy costs

Dutch policy agencies say EU plans to weaken climate rules will barely lower energy costs for businesses while significantly increasing emissions. The assessment from the CPB and PBL challenges the rationale behind the proposed relaxation. The European Commission proposed in July easing the Emissions Trading System, giving companies more time and aid to cut CO2. While permit prices would drop by over a tenth, the CPB estimates gas energy costs fall only 2 euros per megawatt-hour, against a market price above 70 euros. The plans would add net emissions over 25 years equivalent to more than eleven times the Netherlands' annual output. Analysts suggest cutting energy taxes on electricity would be more effective, though negotiations in Brussels may alter the proposal.