BAKU, Azerbaijan, May 3.In terms of cross-border energy infrastructure, the focus of the next decade will be on expanding the capacity of electricity grids worldwide, but particularly in Europe (predominantly the construction of new high-voltage direct current interconnectors), Trend reports with reference to EIB.
"Repurposed and newly built infrastructure for low-carbon gases is likely to have a slow start in the coming decade, but growth may pick up later. Another area with high expected demand is digital infrastructure, i.e. telecommunication networks (mostly fixed-line/fibre-optic) and data centre capacity, which, in view of the closer integration of the service markets in the European Union, will require substantially higher investment than today.
While the European Investment Bank remains ready to support the European Commission and the EU Member States in their efforts to complete the internal market and reinforce economic and social cohesion, some of the biggest barriers and challenges to cross-border infrastructure projects can only be addressed by regulators and governments as they stem from the complex regulatory environment and a lack of political support," reads the EIB report.
The European Investment Bank has long supported cross-border infrastructure investments in and outside the European Union, financing on average eight cross-border infrastructure projects per year. Besides providing direct financial support and mobilising private sector funding, the Bank uses its expertise to stimulate cross-border infrastructure development from multiple angles, including the provision of technical advice and by working with the European Commission to shape policy initiatives that foster sound cross-border projects.