First list of renewable energy cross-border projects adopted
The European Commission adopted the first list of renewable energy cross-border (CB RES) projects under the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF). The list marks the start of the implementation of the window of the CEF Programme, dedicated to renewable energy and decarbonisation.
CB RES projects are identified by the CEF Regulation and aim to promote cross-border cooperation between the EU countries (and between EU countries and non-EU countries) in the field of planning, development and cost-effective exploitation of renewable energy sources. In addition, CB RES projects may facilitate RES integration through energy storage or hydrogen production facilities with the aim of contributing to the EU’s long-term decarbonisation strategy. CB RES projects need to be set-up by a cooperation mechanism as defined in the recast of the Renewable Energy Directive.
This first list comprises three projects, relevant for a total of seven EU countries
a hybrid offshore wind park between Estonia and Latvia
a cross-border district heating grid based on RES between Germany and Poland
a project to produce renewable electricity in Italy, Spain and Germany for conversion, transport and use of green hydrogen in the Netherlands and Germany
By acquiring the official CB RES status, projects are now eligible for financial support for studies and works under the CEF Programme.
Commissioner Simson said:
The three projects selected today are only the beginning: we are accelerating the deployment of renewable energy across the EU and moving towards a more collaborative approach as we do so. The full potential for green transition and decarbonisation of the EU can only be realised through joint efforts across all sectors, technologies and regions.
The realisation of the projects in the first CB RES list will make an important contribution to the increased renewable energy ambition under the European Green Deal, as well as to the objectives of the REPowerEU. The Commission, with the support of the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency, will monitor the implementation of the CB RES projects and will soon make available information on the status of the projects via a public portal.
Source: European Commission Press Service
