Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:
To ask His Majesty's Government why ferry companies and the maritime sector have been given six months before the implementation of the extension of the Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) compared to the European Union's ETS three year phase-in period.
The UK Emissions Trading Scheme Authority has since July 2023, and throughout extensive consultation with stakeholders, signalled its intent to include domestic maritime emissions in the scheme from 2026.
The vast majority (98%) of ships within scope are already required to monitor and report emissions in a very similar way under other policies, and so they should have in place the necessary equipment and processes to support compliance.
For the new obligation of surrendering UK allowances, the first deadline for maritime emissions will be 30 April 2028, providing significant additional time for maritime operators to prepare to comply.