Interoperability of rail infrastructure: Polish State aid scheme approved
The Commission has approved a EUR 47 million State aid scheme to promote rail interoperability by supporting the installation of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS) Baseline 4 or higher on new or modernised trains in Poland. The scheme is funded through the FEnIKS Programme 2021–27 (financed from the European Regional Development Fund and the Cohesion Funds) and aims to improve rail safety, efficiency, and promote a shift from road to rail transport. Running until the end of 2029, the aid will take the form of direct grants covering up to 85% of eligible costs for railway and leasing companies.
The Commission has approved the scheme under Article 93 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union on transport coordination, and the 2008 Commission Guidelines on State aid for railway undertakings, finding it proportionate, appropriate and necessary to promote the use of rail transport, which is less polluting than road transport and contributes to reducing traffic.
For more information, see the Commission’s PR.