Financing and Investment

Financing large scale energy efficiency investments present many challenges such as the lack of local resources and skills. Guarantee Funds, Public-Private Partnerships, Crowdfunding are just some of the solutions which are being developed, expanded and piloted in different regions. Energy agencies and regions are in a unique position to boost sustainable energy investments in Europe by becoming experts in such mechanisms, and by supporting and connecting local and regional stakeholders.

In an era when there is significant liquidity available in the European finance sector, now is an important moment to maximise investments. On 14 January 2020, the European Commission presented the European Green Deal Investment Plan, which aims to mobilise at least €1 trillion of sustainable investments over the next decade for the transition to a climate-neutral, green, competitive and inclusive economy.

Reaching the 2030 climate and energy targets would require €260 billion of additional investments a year by 2030. As the Commission upgrades its objectives through the “Fit for 55” package, larger investments will be necessary for achieving the broader environmental and social objectives that the EU has set itself. To that end, mobilising public and private funding towards the objectives of a just transition to a climate-friendly economy will be the key. Supported by investments in green technologies, sustainable solutions and new businesses, the Green Deal can be a new EU growth strategy – and FEDARENE member energy agencies and regions intend to be a full part of it.

Objectives

• Positioning local and regional energy agencies as front-runners in the financing of the energy transition.
• Implementing various financial models and mechanisms to enhance green investments in European cities and regions.
• Reinforcing links between public authorities, agencies and financing institutions.