Monthly National Update: March
March developments across partner countries were strongly influenced by elections, rising energy prices, and ongoing debates around ETS2, with governments and civil society responding in different ways.
In Hungary, the pre-election period ahead of 12 April has intensified political focus on fuel price caps, energy security, and affordability. Civil society has remained active through policy recommendations, public communication on affordable energy, and media engagement on long-term climate goals. Upcoming work will focus on assessing EU budget (MFF) developments and strengthening national networking efforts.
In Latvia, discussions have advanced around the draft National Building Renovation Plan, with NGOs closely following its development. Attention is now shifting toward contributing to the third thematic report and monitoring updates to the national Social Climate Plan.
In Bulgaria, the government joined several EU Member States in calling for a delay and softening of ETS obligations, alongside introducing short-term measures to address rising fuel prices. With elections scheduled for April 2026, civil society is focusing on evaluating these measures and continuing analytical work, including contributions to the third thematic report.
Poland continues to show strong political resistance to ETS2, with government representatives warning about costs for households. At the same time, civil society is advocating for clear planning and fair use of ETS2 revenues, emphasizing solutions that can mitigate social impacts while enabling implementation.
In Slovenia, elections have shifted the political landscape while energy price pressures have led to increased fossil fuel subsidies, even as plans to support heat pumps signal steps toward decarbonisation. Civil society is positioning the current energy crisis as an opportunity to accelerate the transition, calling for urgent implementation of the Social Climate Plan.
Romania is navigating institutional reforms and ongoing energy challenges, with limited progress on the Social Climate Plan. Civil society continues to engage in EU funding processes and support environmental reforms, while exploring how the current crisis could accelerate renewable energy deployment.
Across all countries, rising energy prices and political uncertainty are shaping national responses. At the same time, a shared focus is emerging on the need for fair implementation of ETS2, stronger use of EU funds, and coordinated advocacy, with the upcoming third thematic report expected to play a key role in joint efforts.
Photo: Elimenda Inagella/ Unsplash
