The Trans-European Network for Energy (TEN-E) Regulation is an EU policy aimed at connecting EU energy infrastructure. Creating a cross-border carbon dioxide network is one of the three priority thematic areas. TEN-E includes transport infrastructure and infrastructure related to CO2 storage, including the ones used for permanent geological storage of CO2The TEN-E Regulation provides the legal framework to recognise “Projects of Common Interest” (PCIs) and “Projects of Mutual Interests” (PMIs), which are cross-border infrastructure projects. PCIs and PMIs can then apply to funding through the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF).
CEF-Energy funding is available for two types of activities:
- Studies contributing to the preparation of the implementation of a PMI/PCI, such as preparatory, mapping, feasibility, evaluation, testing and validation studies.
- Works contributing to the implementation of a PMI/PCI, such as the purchase, supply and deployment of components, systems and services including software, the development, construction and installation activities relating to the eligible infrastructure items of a PCI/ PMI, the acceptance of installations and the launching of a project.
How much is available for carbon removal?
The CEF is a key funding instrument that targets infrastructure investment at the European level. It covers three areas: CEF Energy, Transport and CEF Digital. CEF Energy supports PCIs within the TEN-E policy. For the 2021-2027 period, it has a budget of EUR 5.84 billion and has supported CO2 infrastructure projects, such as CO2 export hubs. The facility’s contribution to these projects amounts to approximately EUR 641.3 million which represents adjacent funding to carbon removal due to their contribution to CO2 storage and transport infrastructure.
On the horizon
Every two years, the European Commission publishes an updated list of the PCIs/PMIs recognised under the TEN-E Regulation. The latest list was published in November 2023.
A new call for proposals under CEF-Energy opened on 30 April 2024 and will close on 22 October 2024. EUR 850 million are available to co-finance studies and works for PCIs and PMIs.
Technology readiness level support
Technology readiness levels (TRLs) are not applicable due to the nature of the funding. However, projects funded are typically at TRL 8 and above.
Eligibility
Projects receiving funding from CEF-Energy need to have been granted PCI/PMI status to be eligible.
CEF-Energy funding is open to all EU member states and third countries participating in CEF-Energy.
Funding rates
Funding is granted for a maximum of 50% for the costs of studies and works and a maximum of 70% for the costs of works in outermost regions.