The European Union (EU) has announced an open bidding process for €7 billion in sustainable transport funding. The funding is being made available through the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF), which aims to support projects that improve and upgrade transport infrastructure across member states. The focus is on cross-border initiatives that will contribute to the creation of a sustainable and smart transport network throughout Europe. The funding is part of the EU’s strategy to reduce emissions and enhance transport services for passengers. Organisations from Ukraine and Moldova, including those affected by conflict, are also eligible to apply for EU transport funding for the first time. The deadline for submitting proposals is January 30, 2024.
EU opens bidding on €7 billion in sustainable transport funding
Overview
The European Union has opened bidding for €7 billion in funding for sustainable transport projects across the EU. The funding is part of the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) and aims to support cross-border initiatives between member states. The focus of the funding is on building, upgrading, and improving transport infrastructure along the trans-European transport network (TEN-T). This network will create a sustainable and smart transport network that connects more than 400 major European cities with airports, railway stations, and other transport terminals. The EU’s European Green Deal aims to cut emissions from transport by 90% by 2050, with TEN-T playing a crucial role in achieving this target.
Connecting Europe Facility
The Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) plays a key role in funding sustainable transport projects. It helps to finance schemes that contribute to the development of the trans-European transport network (TEN-T) and improve transport infrastructure. The CEF provides funding for projects that enhance connectivity and promote European integration through improved transport services. It supports initiatives across different transport modes, including rail, road, air, and maritime transport. The CEF’s goal is to ensure the efficient and sustainable movement of goods and passengers across Europe by investing in infrastructure and technological advancements.
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European Green Deal
The European Green Deal is the EU’s flagship strategy to make Europe the world’s first climate-neutral continent by 2050. It sets ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable development. The European Green Deal recognizes the crucial role of the trans-European transport network (TEN-T) in achieving these targets. By investing in sustainable transport infrastructure, the EU aims to reduce emissions from the transport sector and improve the quality of transport services for passengers. The European Green Deal also emphasizes the importance of promoting green technologies and encouraging modal shift towards more sustainable modes of transportation.
Application Process
Organizations and entities interested in accessing the €7 billion funding for sustainable transport projects must meet certain eligibility requirements. These requirements include being a legal entity established in an EU member state or an eligible country, as well as complying with the relevant EU regulations and guidelines. The deadline for submitting project proposals is 30 January 2024. The evaluation of project proposals will be based on specific criteria, including the project’s contribution to the objectives of the CEF and its alignment with the European Green Deal. The selection process will be competitive, with projects that demonstrate cross-border cooperation and innovation being favored. For the first time, organizations from Ukraine and Moldova can also apply directly for EU transport funding.
Purpose of Funding
The €7 billion in sustainable transport funding has several purposes. One of the main objectives is to improve safety in the transport sector. The funding will support projects that enhance safety measures and infrastructure, making transport operations safer for passengers and goods. Another purpose is to enhance interoperability, ensuring that different transport systems and modes can seamlessly connect and cooperate with each other. This will facilitate the smooth movement of passengers and goods across borders and improve transport efficiency. Additionally, the funding aims to increase the resilience of transport infrastructure against the impact of natural disasters, such as floods and earthquakes. By investing in resilient infrastructure, the EU aims to ensure the continuity of transport services even in challenging circumstances.
Cross-Border Initiatives
Cross-border initiatives are a key focus of the sustainable transport funding. These initiatives aim to promote collaboration and connectivity between different EU member states. By supporting cross-border projects, the EU aims to enhance the integration of transport systems and services across Europe. This will facilitate the seamless movement of passengers and goods between countries, improving transport efficiency and sustainability. Cross-border initiatives also contribute to regional development and economic growth by promoting trade and tourism. They create opportunities for cooperation and knowledge sharing between different regions, fostering closer ties and mutual understanding.
Focus on Sustainable Transport
The €7 billion funding is specifically targeted at sustainable transport projects. The EU recognizes the urgent need to reduce emissions from the transport sector and promote more sustainable modes of transportation. The funding will support initiatives that aim to reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality, and minimize the environmental impact of transport operations. This includes investing in green technologies and alternative fuels, such as electric vehicles and biofuels. The funding will also be used to develop and expand renewable energy sources for transport, such as charging infrastructure for electric vehicles and hydrogen production facilities. Another focus of the funding is to encourage modal shift, promoting the use of more sustainable modes of transportation, such as rail and public transport, instead of private cars.
Financial Allocation
The €7 billion in funding will be allocated to different types of projects within the sustainable transport sector. The exact distribution of funds will depend on the evaluation of project proposals and their alignment with the objectives of the CEF and the European Green Deal. The funding will support a mix of large-scale infrastructure projects, technological advancements, and innovative solutions in the transport sector. It will also cover research and development activities related to sustainable transport, as well as capacity-building initiatives. The aim is to maximize the impact of the funding by supporting a wide range of projects that contribute to the EU’s sustainability goals and promote integration and cooperation across the transport sector.
Role of Connecting Europe Facility
The Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) plays a crucial role in funding sustainable transport projects and supporting the development of the trans-European transport network (TEN-T). The CEF provides financial assistance to projects that contribute to the objectives of the TEN-T and improve transport infrastructure. By funding infrastructure development and improvements, the CEF aims to enhance connectivity, promote economic growth, and facilitate the free movement of goods and passengers across the EU. The CEF also supports the implementation of innovative technologies and solutions in the transport sector, contributing to the EU’s sustainability goals and the European Green Deal. Through its funding and support, the CEF plays a vital role in advancing European integration and creating a sustainable and efficient transport network.