New EU ETS regulations: what do they mean for Polish companies?

Key elements of the EU ETS system

The European Union is taking decisive steps towards climate transformation, and key changes to the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) are the foundation for this. These changes are intended to significantly accelerate the reduction of greenhouse gases, which will affect the activities of different companies.

Key changes include:

• Emission reduction: By 2030 – as much as 62% less emissions in sectors covered by the EU ETS.
• New sectors: Maritime transport (already covered) and from 2027 also buildings and road transport.
• The end of free entitlements: They will disappear completely by 2034.
• CBAM: Imports of steel, cement and aluminium from third countries will be subject to a "climate penalty".

How will changes in the EU ETS affect Polish businesses?

In the face of such significant changes to the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), Polish companies face a number of new challenges and opportunities. The reduction of available entitlements, the extension of the system to other sectors and the introduction of CBAM border fees will have a direct impact on operating costs, investment strategies and the competitiveness of companies operating in Poland.

It is crucial to understand how these regulations will affect specific industries, what steps need to be taken to adapt to new conditions, and whether this transformation will also open up new paths of development and innovation for the Polish economy. But what does all this really mean for Polish companies?

Not just regulations – people behind decisions

Marek, Operations Director at a medium-sized manufacturing company from Lower Silesia, says it bluntly:
"We used to be able to plan investments with a five-year horizon. Today? We have to react quarter by quarter. The cost of CO₂ emissions is a new line in the budget – bigger than marketing."

There are more and more stories like this. And while large corporations have teams of lawyers and ESG officers, medium and small entrepreneurs have been forced to accelerate their climate education.

Are Polish entrepreneurs ready?

Most companies do not yet have ESG departments. Non-financial reporting is still a challenge. But the situation is changing – also thanks to the younger generation of leaders who treat climate not as a threat but as a framework for building an innovative business.

What should business leaders do now?

1. Count carbon footprint – this is where every climate strategy starts.
2. Build emissions reduction and energy efficiency plan – not just for reporting, but for financing.
3. Research regulatory and reputational risks – and prepare scenarios.
4. Get support – Modernisation Fund, Transformation Fund, EIB – there are more opportunities than one might think.
5. Think systematically but act locally – because it is not Brussels that will pay the bills, but your organisation.

Summary: ESG and ETS as an impetus for change

The new regulations are not a “punishment from the EU”, but above all a reflection of the inevitable changes in the global economy. This is an economic sign of the times. Companies that ignore this trend will cease to be competitive, will lose their competitiveness in markets where sustainable development is becoming the standard. But those who react in time – may not only survive, but win. It is the strategic decisions made now in the area of sustainable development and energy transformation that will determine the position and profitability of companies in the coming decade, and perhaps much longer.

We are your partner on the path to sustainable development. We offer professional ESG advisory services, helping to prepare reports and meet all requirements. Contact us to learn about our offer and talk about the needs of your company.