Trading Account
Trading Accounts in the EU ETS
A Trading Account is an account in the EU Union Registry that allows an approved account holder to hold and transfer EU ETS allowances and other eligible units.
Trading Accounts are primarily intended for entities that wish to buy, sell, hold or transfer EU allowances but do not have a direct compliance obligation as an operator.
Unlike operator holding accounts, Trading Accounts are not linked to a specific installation or operator compliance obligation.
Key functions:
- Hold EU Allowances (EUAs)
- Receive allowances from another Registry account
- Transfer allowances to another approved account
- Participate in the EU ETS carbon market
- Maintain allowances for future transactions or compliance purposes
Who Can Open a Trading Account?
A Trading Account may generally be opened by a natural or legal person, subject to the requirements established by the relevant National Administrator.
Applicants may include:
- Companies and other legal entities
- Financial institutions
- Carbon-market participants
- Energy companies
- Investment or trading entities
The EU ETS framework allows Member States to establish certain conditions for opening an account, including requirements relating to residence/registration and, where applicable, VAT registration.
The Union Registry distinguishes Trading Accounts from the Holding Accounts used by stationary installations, aircraft operators and maritime operators.
