- EIB Group pledges €17.5 billion to support energy efficiency for SMEs from 2025-2027.
- The initiative aims to mobilize over €65 billion in total investment by 2027.
- A 'one-stop-shop' will simplify access to energy efficiency financing for SMEs.
- EIB partners with Solar Impulse Foundation to promote energy efficiency as a service.
Investment Initiative
The European Investment Bank (EIB) Group, supported by the European Commission, has launched a €17.5 billion initiative to enhance energy efficiency among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Europe. This effort aims to nearly double the current level of support from 2025 to 2027.
Target and Goals
The initiative targets over 350,000 companies, aiming to mobilize more than €65 billion in total investment by 2027. It focuses on energy efficiency and decarbonization, utilizing a mix of financial products, including debt and equity instruments.
Access and Implementation
A "one-stop-shop" will be introduced to streamline access to financing, integrating the EIB Group's intermediated lending offerings. This approach is designed to simplify engagement and accelerate the implementation of energy efficiency projects for SMEs.
Partnerships and Models
The EIB Group is collaborating with the Solar Impulse Foundation to promote "servitisation," or energy efficiency as a service. This model allows SMEs to pay for energy outcomes rather than purchasing equipment, eliminating upfront costs and facilitating faster adoption of energy-saving measures.
Support and Advisory
The European Commission is launching a working group under the European Energy Efficiency Financing Coalition to address barriers and develop financing solutions for SMEs. The initiative will also include EU budget guarantees and advisory services through the InvestEU program and the LIFE Clean Energy Transition sub-programme.
