EU Emission Allowance

Government confirms £16m paid out to help energy intensive firms cope with the indirect costs of EU Emissions Trading Scheme

Analysts predict 2.5 billion surplus allowances will take seven years to erode even with more ambitious climate policies

Government insists package of support measures could offset up to half of the cost of green surcharge on energy bills

Analysts warn failed auctions are creating a vicious cycle which pushes prices down further

Price of allowances hits second record low this week with little movement now expected before crucial committee vote next month

Five bank staff due to appear before judge after prosecutors raid offices across Germany

Allowances set to be auctioned before 2015 would instead be sold in 2019 and 2020

Number of permits to be withheld temporarily from auction will be accompanied by 'menu' of longer term options to boost carbon price

Commissioner for Enterprise and Industry says energy saving presents 'agenda of opportunity'

Speculation that measures designed to tackle oversupply will be delayed until late August could drive prices below €6, analysts say