EIB and EU finance greener transport in France

Green Forum
The Lille Metropolitan area (Métropole européenne de Lille) has been awarded a green loan of €245 million by the European Investment Bank (EIB) to fund its public transport network and cycling paths. The loan is combined with a €31.5 million grant from the European Commission via the Public Sector Loan Facility (PSLF) set up under the European Green Deal's Just Transition Mechanism (JTM). This will bring the total budget of the project to over €400 million.

The European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA) is responsible for managing this grant and monitor the implementation of the project. This joint blended financing support from the EIB and the European Commission will unlock additional investment for public entities in the European regions most affected by the transition to achieve EU climate and energy targets.

The Green Mobility (GREENMO) project will target various parts of the Lille Metropolitan area public transport infrastructure. The project covers the modernisation of the tram network through the replacement of 30 trams, the roll out of 42 hydrogen-powered buses and the improvement of platforms, depots and other related transport facilities. It will also support the development of an ambitious cycling plan and related infrastructure to improve safety for cyclists.

On completion of the project, around 1.2 million people of the Lille Metropolitan area will benefit from a more efficient, affordable and environmentally friendly public transport service. This improved public transport offer will accelerate change in user behaviour, with an increase in the use of modes of transport alternative to the private car, and reduce its usage in Lille from 56% in 2023 to 40% by 2035. Furthermore, the project is anticipated to significantly transform the Lille Metropolitan area into a bicycle-friendly city. Consequently, greenhouse gas emissions will be reduced by around 90,000 tonnes-equivalent of CO2 annually and around 4,000 direct and indirect jobs will be created.

RECOMMENDED
EIB to support green transport projects in Romania
Mobility

EIB to support green transport projects in Romania

The European Investment Bank (EIB) will advise the Romanian municipality of Ploiești on green transport projects as part of a Europe-wide push to make urban life healthier for people and the environment.

RECOMMENDED FROM THE HOME PAGE
Energy

Waldevar Energy builds utility-scale PV parks in Romania

Waldevar Energy has begun construction on two utility-scale photovoltaic parks for Doral Energy in Tudor Vladimirescu (Brăila County) and Ștefan Vodă (Călărași County), Romania. The projects will deliver 14 MWp of installed capacity using around 25,000 photovoltaic panels.

Industry

Lidl Romania exceeds 2030 sustainability targets early

Lidl Romania has published its eighth sustainability report for the 2024 financial year, announcing accelerated progress in reducing environmental impact. The retailer has achieved its international 2030 target for transitioning to natural refrigerants, with these now used in 100% of logistics centres and 81.7% of stores, compared to the original goal of 100% of logistics centres and 40% of stores. The company has also increased its green energy usage to 80% of total consumption.

Energy

Dentons advises OX2 on 235 MW Romanian wind acquisition

Global law firm Dentons has advised OX2 on acquiring three wind power projects totaling 235 MW in Romania from Future Power. The projects, located in Vaslui and Vrancea counties, are expected to be commissioned between 2028 and 2030, subject to permitting.

Energy

Turkish investors pour millions into Romanian green energy

Romania is emerging as a key destination for Turkish renewable energy investments, attracting growing interest from industrial and financial groups. Real grid connection opportunities for projects, infrastructure modernisation potential, and investment framework stability make Romania strategic for Turkish capital as Europe accelerates its transition to sustainable sources and energy independence.

READ MORE
Green Forum  |  17 December, 2025 at 8:49 AM
Green Forum  |  11 December, 2025 at 11:36 AM