The European Union has recently launched the Clean Industrial Deal, an ambitious initiative aimed at enhancing EU competitiveness through decarbonisation. The plan outlines concrete actions to accelerate the transition of energy-intensive industries while fostering the growth of clean technology. The Clean Industrial Deal seeks to lower energy costs, drive economic growth, and position the EU as a global leader in sustainable industries.
Boosting Demand Through Public Procurement
The report outlines public procurement as a key driver for clean industrial innovation. Targeted procurement policies can help scale up clean technologies and renewable energy solutions, creating resilient industries and generating employment. Not long ago, the STRING members signed a joint statement that called for zero-emission transport solutions within public procurement. A broader EU directive could further expand the market for green transportation, renewable energy, and energy-intensive industries, facilitating transnational collaboration in procurement strategies.
Simplification of State Aid for Clean Technology
The EU will simplify state aid rules to support clean tech manufacturing and industrial decarbonisation. Measures include a five-year planning horizon for state aid, ready-made state aid options for renewable energy projects, and better integration with the Innovation Fund and InvestEU. These changes will provide long-term investment security, making it easier for STRING members to channel support towards clean technology initiatives while ensuring a stable environment for investors.
Hydrogen – A Key for Decarbonisation of Energy-Intensive Industry
The deal highlights that hydrogen is a key technology for energy-intensive sectors, such as metals, steel, and chemicals, in which electrification is not yet an option. In 2025, the EU is going to adopt a delegated act on low-carbon hydrogen, increase Hydrogen Bank funding, with a €1 billion call and launch the Hydrogen Mechanism to connect off-takers and suppliers, supporting industries like maritime transport. STRING sees this as a significant opportunity to strengthen cross-border hydrogen networks with increased EU support.
Sustainable Transport Investment Plan
The Sustainable Transport Investment Plan will prioritise support for low-carbon fuels in aviation, shipping, and rail. It also aims to accelerate the rollout of recharging infrastructure and the shift of freight from road to rail. This aligns with STRING’s vision for a Green Transport Corridor and could potentially give STRING members access to EU funding for sustainable cross-border projects within the region.
The Clean Industrial Deal is a promising initiative that has great potential to drive the green transition and attract investments to the EU. It aims at strengthening the industry, securing cheaper energy and thereby accelerating the green transition. With its established leadership in clean technology and decarbonisation, the STRING megaregion is well-positioned to benefit from and contribute to this transformative EU strategy.
