The European Investment Bank (EIB) has approved a loan of up to €264 million to Italian energy infrastructure company Snam, in support of the integration of biomethane into the country’s gas transmission network. The move represents a significant step forward in Italy’s efforts to transition towards a more sustainable and resilient energy system.

The first tranche of the loan, amounting to €140 million, was signed today in the presence of EIB Vice-President Gelsomina Vigliotti and Snam CEO Agostino Scornajenchi.

Major infrastructure investment for the energy transition

The financing will support the construction of approximately 240 kilometres of new gas pipelines, specifically designed to connect biomethane production facilities to Italy’s national gas network. Once operational, the infrastructure will enable the transport of up to 12,000 GWh of renewable energy annually—equivalent to roughly 1.13 billion cubic metres of biomethane.

This project aligns with the goals outlined in Italy’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP), which includes a target of producing 5 billion cubic metres of biomethane per year by 2030. It is also in line with the European Union’s REPowerEU strategy, which seeks to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels and boost the use of home-grown renewable energy sources.

“This operation once again highlights the EIB’s key role in promoting energy security and the green transition in Italy,” said Vice-President Vigliotti. “Our loan to Snam will contribute to reducing dependence on foreign energy, while strengthening both national and European strategic autonomy in line with REPowerEU and the NRRP.”

Snam CEO Agostino Scornajenchi remarked, “Biomethane represents a strategic asset, working alongside natural gas to ensure a secure and flexible energy system. With this financing, we are advancing our commitment to build an efficient gas infrastructure capable of supporting increased source diversification and enhancing the competitiveness of the entire system.”

The investments are fully compliant with the EU’s green taxonomy, underscoring their contribution to Europe’s broader climate and energy objectives.