EU Member States granted first CEF transport infrastructure projects

EU Member States, represented in the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) Coordination Committee, approved the allocation of €13.1 billion to support a total of 276 projects selected following the first transport calls for proposals under the CEF, published in 2014. Whole process of application and evaluation has been coordinated by Brussels based Innovation and Network Executive Agency (INEA). A number of projects with Baltic ports as beneficiaries has been approved.

The 2014 CEF transport calls were the largest to date for TEN-T projects, attracting with 700 project proposals. According to European Commission priorities were given to the projects with the highest European added value, ranging from small studies to enhance the environmental performance of transport (including alternative fuels as LNG) to flagship cross-border infrastructure works.

Violeta Bulc, EC Transport Commissioner said "I am very pleased that following constructive discussions in the CEF coordination committee, the Member States approved our proposal for the largest investment plan ever made by the EU in the transport area. The projects we selected will contribute to creating jobs and boosting growth in Europe. They will ensure smooth transport flows for passengers and contribute to our economic competitiveness."

Within Motorways of the Sea Programme a number of projects with Baltic ports as beneficiaries we selected for funding including investments in port infrastructure, “green” investments, facility for LNG bunkering. Moreover; some of the Baltic shipping lines received funding for retrofitting of their fleet (e.g. scrubber) or LNG fuel system installations. EU Member States have also selected large transport infrastructure projects

Bogdan Oldakowski, BPO Secretary General said “I am pleased that many Baltic ports are included as beneficiaries in the selected projects. 22 Baltic core ports will invest in future port infrastructure and with CEF instrument it is easier for those ports to secure financing of future port infrastructure. It is worth to remember that there are several smaller ports in the Baltic (e.g. those having comprehensive status) with its own investment needs – they are also vital for providing efficient and environmental friendly maritime transport in the Baltic”

Next Motorways of the Sea call is expected to be open in autumn 2015. BPO will discuss opportunities for ports within next MoS call during forecoming Baltic Ports Conference 2015 in Riga, 2-4 September.

For more information about selected projects:
Brochure on selected projects under the 2014 CEF Transport Calls