The Ministry of Climate and Environment is preparing a fresh regulation on quality requirements for solid fuels, including coal. The aim of the changes is to improve air quality through restrictions on fuel parameters specified as sulphur, ash, moisture and fuel value. Although the introduction of fresh regulations aims to reduce smog, it is controversial.
What does the fresh regulation supply for?
Changes in quality parameters
The fresh rules will amend the quality requirements for solid fuels. These include:
- Changes in the naming of fuel mixes: The fresh terms aim to better adapt to the actual characteristics of the fuel.
- Modification of quality parameters: Requirements for sulphur, ash, moisture and calorific value will be tightened. This aims to improve the efficiency of combustion and reduce emissions of harmful substances into the atmosphere.
Controversy with fresh legislation
Effects on mines and the coal market
The introduction of fresh regulations is controversial mainly due to the possible consequences for the coal market:
- Problems for national mines: The introduction of stricter quality requirements may consequence in national mines not being able to sale coal which does not meet fresh standards.
- Increase in imports and prices: The increase in costs associated with the introduction of fresh quality standards can lead to increased imports of coal and higher prices for consumers.
Delays and further consultations
The Ministry of Climate and Environment decided to extend the date of entry into force of the fresh rules and to conduct additional consultations. This could affect the timetable for changes and let better alignment of the rules to marketplace realities.
What are the forecasts for coal prices?
Potential price increases
Experts indicate that the fresh rules may lead to crucial increases in coal prices. Prof. Paweł Bożacz from the AGH University in Krakow points out that:
- Price increases: The fresh requirements can increase coal prices in a short time, which will burden households utilizing coal for heating.
- Increase in costs for individual customers: Imports and sales of coal which do not meet the fresh standards can force producers to rise prices, which will translate into higher bills for consumers.
What can consumers do?
Preparation for changes
To minimise the impact of the forthcoming changes, consumers should:
- Monitor coal prices: Regular monitoring of coal prices and planning of purchases in advance can aid avoid abrupt increases.
- Consider alternate energy sources: In the face of possible price increases, it is worth considering investing in alternate heating sources specified as heat pumps and gas heating.
Cooperation with local authorities
It is besides worth working with local governments and environmental organisations, which can offer support in adapting to fresh regulations and information on available support programmes.
The fresh regulation of the Ministry of Climate and Environment on the quality requirements for solid fuels could bring crucial changes to the coal market, including possible price increases. While the changes aim to improve air quality, it is worth preparing for their introduction by monitoring coal prices and considering alternate energy sources. Extending the date of entry into force and additional consultations may aid to mitigate the impact of these changes on consumers.
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There'll be a fresh regulation. Price of coal powerfully up
