EIB, European Commission, and Solar Impulse Foundation Launch Energy Efficiency Initiative for SMEs

At COP29 in Baku, the European Investment Bank Group (EIBG), the European Commission (EC), and the Solar Impulse Foundation (SIF) unveiled a new energy efficiency initiative aimed at accelerating decarbonization efforts for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This pilot initiative, part of the EIB Group Strategic Roadmap 2024-2027, focuses on supporting SMEs in overcoming barriers to energy-efficient investments, such as high upfront costs and limited resources.

A key feature of the initiative is the introduction of “efficiency-as-a-service” models, where businesses pay for outcomes (e.g., lighting or heating) rather than purchasing equipment, enabling cost savings and increased energy efficiency without prohibitive initial investments. The initiative aligns with the EU’s legally binding goal of reducing energy consumption by 11.7% by 2030, contributing to global climate targets and enhancing the competitiveness of European SMEs.

By leveraging the Solar Impulse Efficient Solution label and SIF’s network of over 1,600 certified clean technologies, the initiative aims to establish innovative pilot projects that serve as proofs of concept for scaling energy-efficient solutions.

The initiative is supported by the InvestEU programme and represents a milestone in advancing sustainable energy practices for SMEs across Europe.

Source: EIB.org