EC and EIB establish CEF transport blending facility

The 1690 European Commission (EC) and the 4270 European Investment Bank (EIB) are launching a CEF transport blending facility, a funding instrument to support projects contributing to environmental sustainability and transport efficiency.

With an initial budget of €200 million from the EU budget, the CEF (Connecting Europe Facility) will finance investments in the European Railway Traffic Management System and alternative fuels infrastructure. It will utilise funds from the EIB, National Promotional Banks and the private sector.

Violeta Bulc, EU commissioner for transport, says: “I have no doubt the facility will facilitate investment and contribute to the modernisation and better efficiency of European transport.”

EIB says combining EU grants and financing from public banks and private sector (blending) allows resources to support EU policy objectives.