The European Alternative Fuels Observatory (EAFO) is delighted to announce the launch of a new interactive web page by the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA), part of the celebrations marking the tenth anniversary of the Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) Programme. The page, titled "Greener Transport Infrastructure for Europe," vividly showcases the impactful contributions of the CEF for Transport Programme in advancing the greening and decarbonization of the transport sector across the European Union.

Introduced during the 2024 Connecting Europe Days, this web page features a dynamic mix of texts, visuals, data, and notably, interactive maps. These maps allow users to explore and pinpoint CEF-funded projects throughout the EU, focusing on railway transport, ERTMS, inland waterways, ports, and alternative fuels.

Driving Decarbonization through Alternative Fuels Infrastructure

One of the central aspects highlighted on the new page is the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) under the Fit for 55 package. This regulation is instrumental in setting targets for deploying adequate infrastructure for road vehicles, trains, vessels, and stationary aircraft, supporting the EU's climate neutrality objectives by 2050. The transport sector, responsible for nearly 25% of the EU's greenhouse gas emissions, sees significant GHG reductions through projects supported by the CEF Transport Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Facility (AFIF) since its inception in 2021.

Road Transport Innovations

The page details the CEF Transport's efforts in decarbonizing road transport, showcasing the support for over 42,000 recharging points across Europe, including over 21,000 high-capacity points. Notable projects such as Expand-E General, Expand-E Cohesion, and Expand-E Hungary are making strides in deploying high-power recharging facilities. Additionally, the initiative extends to over 275 hydrogen refueling stations across 12 Member States, significantly boosting hydrogen availability and contributing to the reduction of road transport emissions, as seen in Poland’s "Clean cities – hydrogen mobility in Poland" project.

Electrification of Airports and Ports

The transition to electrical power in airports is another significant stride, with CEF Transport aiding 43 airports in 8 Member States like Milan and Paris to switch ground vehicles and stationary aircraft to electricity. This shift is crucial in reducing pollutants, noise, and CO2 emissions. The support extends to maritime and inland waterways, enhancing zero-emission fuel uptake in 27 European ports through the installation of shore-side electricity facilities, prominently featured in Amsterdam and Rotterdam.

This interactive platform not only informs but also engages stakeholders, policymakers, and the public on the tangible benefits of the EU's investments in creating a sustainable and efficient transport network. It stands as a testament to the union's commitment to a cleaner, greener future.

For a detailed exploration of the "Greener Transport Infrastructure for Europe" and to understand more about how these projects are reshaping Europe’s transport landscape, visit the CINEA’s interactive page.