Connecting Europe Facility

Calls are regularly published under the form of challenges in Energy (trans european network policies) Transport and Digital. eligibility conditions and procedures are unique for each call. The funding covers studies contributing to the preparation of the implementation of a PCI, preparatory studies and works for cross border projects, and works contributing to the implementation of a PCI (including the purchase, supply and deployment of components, systems and services including software, the development, construction and installation activities relating to a project, the acceptance of installations and the launching of a project).

CEF Energy

With a new call worth €600 million, CEF Energy’s primary aim is to accelerate the EU’s transition to a clean, secure, and integrated energy market, in line with the European Green Deal and the Union’s decarbonisation objectives for 2030 and 2050.

Funding and Scope

• Budget: €5.84 billion allocated for the 2021–2027 period for energy projects.
• Grant Coverage: Generally covers up to 50% of eligible project costs for studies and works, and up to 75% for projects that enhance security of supply, system flexibility, solidarity, or innovation.
• Recent Allocations: In January 2025, €1.25 billion was allocated to 41 cross-border energy infrastructure projects, marking the largest ever CEF Energy funding round.

Main Objectives

• Advance Energy Market Integration: Facilitate the integration of national energy markets across the EU by supporting cross-border infrastructure projects.
• Support Decarbonisation: Enable the shift to low-carbon energy sources and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by investing in renewable energy, smart grids, and CO₂ infrastructure.
• Enhance Security of Supply: Improve the reliability and resilience of the EU’s energy system by diversifying energy sources and strengthening infrastructure.
• Promote Innovation and Competitiveness: Foster the deployment of innovative technologies and enhance the competitiveness of the European energy sector.

Application and Eligibility

• Who Can Apply: Legal entities (public or private) established in eligible countries.
• Project Requirements: Projects must be included on the PCI or PMI list, contribute to European energy objectives, increase competition, and have a significant market impact in at least two countries. Applications must be supported by Member State letters and often require a cost-benefit analysis and business plan.
• Call Schedule: CEF Energy issues annual calls for proposals, with the next major call open from April to September 2025.

Eligible Projects

CEF Energy funds projects that are crucial for the EU’s energy objectives, including:

• Projects of Common Interest (PCIs): Strategic cross-border energy infrastructure projects listed under the Trans-European Networks for Energy (TEN-E) policy.
• Projects of Mutual Interest (PMIs): Projects involving non-EU countries that contribute to EU energy policy goals.
• Cross-border Renewable Energy Projects: Initiatives that facilitate the integration and generation of renewable energy across borders.
• Hydrogen and Offshore Projects: As of 2024, hydrogen infrastructure, electrolysers, and offshore energy projects are eligible for funding.
• CO₂ Transport and Storage: Funding is available for carbon capture, transport, and storage infrastructure to support EU decarbonisation targets.