Updates on the European Investment Bank

Comments on the European Neighbourhood Policy and the forthcoming European Neighborhood Instrument

The primary goal of the EU’s neighbourhood policy should be based on an insistence on increased democracy in EU neighbourhood countries. This should happen through public participation in decision-making processes, the establishment of good governance and sustainable development practices, increased environmental protection and climate change mitigation and adaptation, as well as increased welfare and social security across these countries.

Letter to European Commission: Suggestions to improve the financial regulation for the European Neighbourhood Instrument

Also available on our website are detailed Comments on the European Neighbourhood Policy and the forthcoming European Neighborhood Instrument.

The EIB energy policy revision process

During a meeting with civil society organisations in October 2011 the EIB announced it would begin a revision of its energy lending policy in 2012 and solicit public input. This briefing gives a brief overview over the process and the necessary changes in the bank’s energy policy that would help bringing the EIB’s energy lending in line with Europe’s climate targets.

Bankwatch Mail 50

Bankwatch Mail 50 contains a range of European development finance issues with a particular focus on EU Funds as we publish on the day of our Green investments to the rescue conference in Brussels.

Independent analysis questions economic viability of TES 6

Ljubljana – An independent analysis commissioned by Bankwatch and Focus published today reveals a number of unsubstantiated claims and methodological mistakes in the investment plan for the TEŠ 6 lignite plant in Slovenia. Correct calculations show that the internal rate of return is in reality lower than estimated by the project promoter, state-owned TEŠ. Had the rate of return been calculated properly, the project would not have qualified for the EIB loan of 440 million euros it is set to receive.

A critical examination of the investment proposals for Unit 6 of the Sostanj power plant

Four investment plans have been produced for the Sostanj lignite fired power plant in Slovenia with many differences in calculations and outcomes. This review of the latest investment plan illustrates a number of shortcomings including both methodological mistakes and unsubstantiated claims.

European public banks must disengage with Egypt’s military junta

In light of the violence against civilians on the streets of Egypt today, CEE Bankwatch Network is requesting that the European Investment Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development immediately cease discussions and negotiations with the Egyptian government and authorities on all levels about potential financial involvement in the country until the Supreme Council of the Armed Forces (SCAF) cedes power to civilian leaders, the country has a legitimately-elected civilian government in control of the army, and military trials come to an end.

Sostanj power plant in Slovenia: Against EU laws and policies

The project is a plan to construct a sixth unit at the Sostanj lignite-fired power plant in Slovenia. It has received significant backing from European public banks adding up to more than 50% of the overall costs of the investment. Doubts about the economic viability of the project, alleged irregularities in the tendering procedure and its climate impact caused strong opposition to the project within Slovenia. A recent study conducted by an independent consultant as well as two complaints submitted to the European Commission by NGOs bring new arguments against TES 6.

The recap on recapitalisation

As the eurozone crisis continues to unfold, lending from international financial institutions to the banking sector must be held to the task of supporting the most vulnerable – especially the SMEs in CEE – or it will continue to perform largely unsuccessful and unchecked as it has during the crisis to date.

Complaint to European Commission: Public procurement procedure for the Sostanj lignite power plant