A new €17.5 billion financing programme from the EU is set to offer energy efficiency and decarbonisation support to over 350,000 European small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The initiative, launched by the European Investment Bank (EIB) Group with support from the European Commission, seeks to help SMEs cut costs, strengthen competitiveness, and contribute to the EU’s climate objectives.
Running from 2025 to 2027, the programme will almost double current levels of financial support for energy efficiency projects. By combining loans, guarantees, and equity tools, the initiative hopes to mobilise more than €65 billion in total investment by 2027. The funding will back technologies and measures that reduce energy consumption, filling an investment gap that has disadvantaged smaller businesses.
Announcing the initiative in Brussels, Energy and Housing Commissioner Dan Jørgensen emphasised the importance of closing this gap: “SMEs invest in efficiency at only half the rate of larger firms. This programme will make financing easier and more accessible, delivering benefits for businesses, communities, and the climate.” EIB Group President Nadia Calviño highlighted the dual impact, noting that reduced energy costs also strengthen Europe’s overall competitiveness.
A central feature of the initiative will be a “one-stop shop” for SMEs, providing streamlined access to EIB services through a single entry point.
Working Group on Energy Efficiency
In parallel, a new working group under the European Energy Efficiency Financing Coalition will focus specifically on SME needs, developing tailored solutions to remove barriers to investment. Dedicated platforms, supported by private partners, will further expand investor participation in energy efficiency projects.
Overall, the announced initiatives mark a significant step in supporting SMEs’ green transition, aligning with the EU’s broader Clean Industrial Deal and efforts to deliver affordable, sustainable energy.
Source: EU Directorate-General for Energy
Details
- Publication date
- 19 September 2025
- Author
- European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency