Romania Pushes Forward with Green Investment in Bucharest Tram Modernisation
Romania is advancing plans to modernise urban transport in its capital, București, through a major investment programme supported by the European Investment Bank (EIB). The financing agreement, announced in an official EIB press release, is part of a broader effort to improve mobility and reduce environmental impact in the metropolitan area.
According to details published by the EIB, the project will fund the rehabilitation of around 50 kilometres of tram track, alongside the purchase of 63 new trams and the upgrade of the Colentina depot. The works are expected to be completed by 2030 and aim to improve both reliability and efficiency in public transport.
Local officials have also emphasised the urgency of the investment. Speaking at the signing of the agreement on April 20, Ciprian Ciucu stated that the city’s tram infrastructure is more than 50 years old and no longer efficient, highlighting the need for substantial upgrades to meet modern standards.
The EIB noted in its official communication that the financing forms part of a €300 million loan contributing to a wider €1.3 billion programme. This larger initiative is designed to improve urban transport systems while also reducing the carbon footprint of energy supply, including district heating, across a metropolitan population of over two million people.
In remarks included in the EIB statement, Vice-President Ioannis Tsakiris described the investment as an important step toward transforming București into a more sustainable and future-ready city. He added that the bank aims to support projects that generate lasting benefits for both citizens and the environment.
The EIB further indicated that it has provided advisory support during the preparation phase of the project. This combined approach—financial backing alongside technical expertise—is intended to accelerate implementation and improve cost efficiency, as outlined in the bank’s project documentation.
Overall, as reflected in both EIB communications and statements from local authorities, the initiative represents a key component of Romania’s broader efforts to align with European sustainability and urban development goals.
