What Ireland's Social Climate Plan must include: Six key priorities
Publications: Environmental Democracy
Ireland must submit a Social Climate Plan (SCP) to the European Commission by 30 June 2025, outlining how it will use EU Social Climate Fund (SCF) resources to address the social impacts of the new EU Emissions Trading System 2 (ETS2), which extends carbon pricing to buildings and road transport.
Although Ireland has a derogation from ETS2 from 2027 to 2030 due to its existing carbon tax, it is still required to implement an SCP and fulfill its obligations under the SCF Regulation.
The Environmental Justice Network Ireland (EJNI) outlines six key priorities for Ireland’s SCP:
Take early action despite the derogation.
Accurately identify and support vulnerable groups.
Build capacity to implement SCF measures effectively.
Set clear targets for energy efficiency, mobility, and emissions cuts.
Provide temporary income supports linked to long-term transition.
Align with Ireland’s broader climate and social goals.
Strong national co-financing is essential to maximize the plan’s impact and meet SCF objectives.