Green, safe and smart transport networks: Additional €242 million for transport infrastructure studies
The EU is supporting 68 studies to prepare the ground for projects that will build missing transport links and eliminate bottlenecks across the continent, enhance sustainable transport and create jobs. The €242.2 in funding from the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) contributes to the European Commission’s commitment to delivering a transport network that is environmentally performant, safe for its users and driven by smart solutions. Commissioner for Transport, Adina Vălean, said: “This week we adopted important legislative proposals that will help the EU reduce net greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030. The studies that we are supporting today via the Connecting Europe Facility contribute to the same aim. They are a starting point for many projects that will help accelerate the transition to a smart and sustainable transport network. Looking ahead, we are going to release new funds worth €30 billion for transport, digital and energy projects for 2021-2027, via the Connecting Europe Facility programme for 2021-2027, bringing us closer to achieving our European Green Deal goals.” Over half of the supported projects will help create a stronger European railway network by boosting and reinforcing cross-border links and essential sections – this is of particular interest during this European Year of Rail. The projects will also improve infrastructure and solve capacity challenges for inland waterway transport and maritime ports, notably through the installation of on-shore power supply to cut emissions from docked ships. All of these projects will help the Commission deliver on its climate objectives, as laid out in the European Green Deal.