PPP projects can be partly funded by resources from the Structural Funds. Nevertheless, few Member States so far seem systematically to design programmes that bring Community funding into PPP structures21. There is a perception that combining different sets of EU and national rules and practices and timetables in one project may be complex and act as a disincentive. However, in many cases a PPP may offer the optimal approach for implementing projects. Strengthening Member States' institutional capacity and providing more practical guidance on combining Community funding with PPPs should help national administrations to have more recourse to PPPs when taking decisions about financing future major projects.
Harilaos Trikoupis Bridge: This bridge over the straits of Corinth, the longest cable-stayed bridge in the world, connects the Peloponnese with mainland Greece. In 1996, the Greek state granted the Franco-Hellenic consortium Gefyra S.A. a 42-year concession for the conception, construction, use and maintenance of the Harilaos Trikoupis bridge. The EU extended significant financial support, in the form of an ERDF grant and a loan from the EIB, to this building project. |
The Structural Funds for the period 2007-2013 offer important opportunities to Member States to implement operational programmes through PPPs organised with the EIB, banks, investment funds and the private sector in general. Initiatives aiming to combine Structural Funds with PPP projects can draw on:
- JASPERS22, a project development facility launched together with the EIB and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), which aims at providing assistance as required for any stage of a PPP/infrastructure project cycle.
- The JESSICA23 initiative for sustainable urban investment for PPPs/urban projects included in an integrated urban development plan.
- The context of the JEREMIE24 initiative in support of new business creation and improving access to finance for enterprises.
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21 According to DG REGIO survey, 7 Member States have experience of PPP with a Structural Fund component.
22 Joint Assistance to Support Projects in European Regions.
23 Joint European Support for Sustainable Investment in City Areas.
24 Joint European Resources for Micro to Medium Enterprises.