New entrant allocation in the Nordic energy sectors: incentives and options in the EU ETS

Markus Åhman and Kristina Holmgren

Climate Policy, 2006, vol. 6, issue 4, 423-440

Abstract: In the EU emission trading scheme (EU ETS), the treatment of new entrants has proved to be one of the most contentious issues. This article analyses the impact of allocation to new entrants in the energy sector, and identifies options for improved regulation in this field. The point of departure for the discussion is a comparative analysis of the allocation in phase I and phase II of the EU ETS to two hypothetical energy installations located in different EU Member States. The study focuses on the Nordic countries due to their integrated energy market. The quantitative analysis was complemented by interviews with policy-makers and industry representatives. The results suggest that current allocation rules can significantly distort competition. The annual value of the allocation is comparable to the fixed investment costs for a new installation and is not insignificant compared to expected revenues from sales of electricity from the installation. The study finds that the preferred option would be that Nordic countries should not allocate free allowances to new entrants in the energy sector. This should be combined with adjusted rules on allocation to existing installations and closures in order to avoid putting new installations at a disadvantage. A second, less-preferred choice would involve harmonized benchmarks across the Nordic countries.

Date: 2006
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DOI: 10.1080/14693062.2006.9685611

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