EU nations support tighter price controls for upcoming carbon market

EU member states' ambassadors expressed support on February 18, 2026, for proposals to strengthen price curbs within the upcoming ETS2 carbon trading scheme. The move, discussed during formal intergovernmental meetings involving the European Commission, aims to introduce a mechanism that would release additional permits into the market if carbon prices reach a threshold of €45. This development comes as member states, including Slovakia SK and the Czech Republic CZ, seek to refine the design of the major climate policy before the European Parliament finalises its position.