Template-Type: ReDIF-Article 1.0 Author-Name: Stephen Lecourt Title: EU ETS Phase 3 Benchmarks - Implications and Potential Flaws Classification-JEL: F0 Pages: Volume: Volume 2 Issue: Number 2 Year: 2013 Abstract: In Phase 3 (2013-20) of the European Union Emissions Trading Scheme, the allocation methodology has shifted from grandfathering to a combination of auctioning and benchmark-based free allocation in the framework of Community-wide rules. Free allocation will apply mainly to non-electricity generators, and will decrease linearly throughout the phase with a view of ending free allocation by 2027. Benchmark-based free allocation is intended to reward the least CO2-intensive installations and thus provide an incentive to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This policy note describes the concrete changes implied by this shift in allocation methodology, and identifies potential flaws in the new transitional Community-wide rules for free allocation, thereby contributing to the discussion on the need for structural reforms in the ETS. Handle: RePEc:aen:eeepjl:2_2_a07 File-URL: http://www.iaee.org/en/publications/eeeparticle.aspx?id=51 File-Format: text/html File-Restriction: Access to full text is restricted to IAEE members and subscribers.