A new €2 billion European Investment Bank (EIB) funding stream targeting municipal clean heating infrastructure is now open for applications, and Gas-Free Cities signatories are eligible for a dedicated fast-track application process.
The fund, part of the EU’s REPowerEU package, targets cities with populations above 50,000 that can demonstrate a legally binding commitment to phasing out fossil fuels from their building stock. The Gas-Free Cities declaration qualifies as such a commitment in all signatory jurisdictions.
What the fund covers
Eligible projects include:
- Large-scale heat pump installations in public buildings
- District heating network extensions and conversions from gas to renewable sources
- Retrofitting programmes for social housing, schools, and hospitals
- Feasibility studies and technical planning for gas-free neighbourhoods
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. The EIB has indicated that its current review cycle runs approximately eight weeks from submission to decision.
How signatory cities can apply
The Gas-Free Cities campaign team has prepared a detailed briefing note for signatory cities, outlining the application requirements and the specific language needed to reference the declaration in funding bids.
Cities wishing to receive the briefing note should contact the campaign team via the contact form. The campaign team can also arrange introductory calls with EIB programme officers for cities that are further advanced in their project planning.
Background
The new fund builds on the earlier EIB Climate Bank Roadmap commitments, under which the EIB pledged to align 50% of all new financing with climate action and environmental sustainability by 2025. Heating and cooling in buildings — currently responsible for around 36% of EU energy consumption — is a priority sector.