Output-Based Allocation of Emissions Permits for Mitigating Tax and Trade Interactions

Abstract

The allocation of tradable emissions permits has important efficiency as well as distributional effects when tax and trade distortions are taken into account. We compare different rules for allocating carbon allowances within sectors (lumpsum grandfathering, output-based allocation (OBA), auctioning) and among sectors (historical emissions or value-added shares). The output subsidies implicit in OBA mitigate tax interactions, unlike grand-fathering. OBA with sectoral distributions based on value added is similar to revenue recycling with auctioning. OBA based on historical emissions supports heavier polluters, more effectively counter-acting carbon leakage, but at higher welfare costs. Less energy-intensive sectors are also sensitive to allocation rules.