Today in Strasbourg, during the European Parliament’s plenary session, a debate took place on the action plan presented by the European Commission on February 26, which outlines short-term measures aimed at reducing energy costs, complete the creation of the Energy Union, attract investment, and better prepare for potential energy crises. PiS MEP Daniel Obajtek spoke during the discussion.
Daniel Obajtek stated that President Ursula von der Leyen’s presentation of a plan to lower energy prices “is nothing short of a scandal.” He explained that it does not include any realistic, rapid mechanisms that would enable a quick reduction in energy prices. “The proposed contracts for difference and long-term contracts have already been tried. And those contracts did not actually lower energy prices, either in Poland or elsewhere,” noted the PiS MEP. The Polish politician added that “the proposal to lower taxes is something that member states can do on their own; they don’t have to ask the Commission for it at all.” On the issue of expanding grid infrastructure, the PiS politician agreed that it is necessary, but, as he added, “it will actually take decades and cost billions of euros.” “We are not able to do this quickly,” Obajtek believes. In the opinion of the PiS MEP, “to save industry and lower energy prices here and now, the ETS must be reformed immediately.” He argued that financial institutions, which effectively drive up prices, should not be allowed in the ETS system. The PiS MEP also proposed that emitters be allowed to convert their CO2 costs into capital for investments.
