INSIGHTSSERIES
Environmental Markets | Carbon Markets
September 21, 2026
Carbon Pricing September 2026 Update
From Virginia’s return to RGGI to Western market integration, U.S. carbon markets are broadening their reach amid challenges.
Cap-and-trade programs across the U.S. are evolving as states refine program frameworks, adjust emissions trajectories, and…Read the full report
Key Takeaways
- RGGI’s 73rd auction, the first since Virginia rejoined after its 2023 exit, cleared at a record-high price, with auction proceeds exceeding $1 billion.
- California and Québec have signed an agreement with Washington to advance the process of linking their carbon markets, with a shared market targeted for 2027.
- The latest California-Québec carbon auction cleared at a price 13 percent higher than the last quarterly auction, while Washington’s clearing price fell 39 percent from the previous auction.
