The European Union (EU) has recently announced 26 infrastructure projects that will receive over EUR 352 million to propel the adoption of alternative fuels infrastructure across the trans-European transport network (TEN-T). The financial backing is sourced from the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Facility (AFIF) under the broader Connecting Europe Facility, further bolstered by capital from financial institutions. This funding is part of the EU’s commitment to creating a transport network that aligns with the ambitious objectives of the EU Green Deal.
The EU’s investment will translate into approximately 12,000 charging points, 18 hydrogen refuelling stations, and the electrification of ports and airports. The support for alternative fuels infrastructure will facilitate the adoption of cleaner and more sustainable propulsion methods in inland navigation vessels.
Commissioner for Transport, Adina Vălean, aptly pointed out that this investment is not limited to any one mode of transportation. Instead, it encompasses a holistic approach, addressing sustainable transport on roads, in the sky, and at sea and on inland waterways. As inland waterway transport seamlessly integrates into the broader multi-modal transport system, these investments will enhance the connectivity of IWT with other transportation modes, ensuring smoother cargo flows and reduced environmental impact.
