In our shared journey towards a sustainable future, the EU Emission Trading Scheme (ETS) emerges as a pivotal mechanism in the EU’s climate change strategy. It’s the cornerstone of the 'Fit for 55' initiative, driving us towards a remarkable reduction in greenhouse gas emissions—55% from 1990 levels by 2030—and steering the EU towards carbon neutrality by 2050.
The strategy? Making the cost of fossil fuels reflect their environmental impact, thereby propelling the adoption of greener alternatives and investment in energy efficiency.
Market forces shape the price of EU ETS allowances, with the current rate at EUR 85 per ton of CO2 as of September 2023. But the ripples of change are expanding: starting 2024, EU ETS will encompass commercial maritime operators for vessels over 5000 gross tonnage that dock at EU ports. This includes ferries, which will incur charges for emissions en route to and from EU destinations.
Coverage is comprehensive: 100% of emissions from intra-EU voyages, 50% from trips to or from non-EU countries like the UK, and all emissions during port docking times within the EU.
As we adapt to these regulations, from 1st January 2024, an ETS surcharge will apply to ferry routes within the EU. This surcharge, subject to monthly updates for accuracy, will be clearly itemized to ensure transparency.
Looking ahead, the UK is not far behind, with plans to implement its own ETS by 2026, which will influence domestic and EU-bound routes from the UK.
To give a sense of the upcoming changes, here are some estimated surcharges based on the rates from September 2023:
- DFDS Dover to Calais route: €4.80
- Dover to Calais with Irish Ferries: €4.28
- Holyhead to Dublin with Irish Ferries: €11.68
- Dublin to Cherbourg route with Irish Ferries: €79.50
Stay tuned as we navigate these changes together, ensuring we all contribute to a greener, cleaner world.
