The European Investment Bank (EIB) group signed €359 million in new commitments for projects in Slovenia in 2023, up from €257 million in the year before, funding projects that promote sustainable transport and progress towards decarbonisation and sustainability.

One of the major operations was a €250 million loan for the Divača-Koper rail track that the EIB said highlights "the EIB's commitment to strategic infrastructure development and cleaner transportation."

In the energy sector, the EIB singled out a €42 million loan signed with Elektro Primorska as part of their mission to "bolster the region's energy infrastructure while adhering to the highest sustainability standards".

The EIB is working with several other operators in the country and expect to further finance the sector in 2024.

This year the bank also hopes to deliver financing for projects in sustainable transport, energy efficiency and affordable housing.

"In the energy, manufacturing and industrial sectors, we are intensifying collaboration with the private sector to foster the growth of private companies in Slovenia and the wider region," said EIB vice-president Kyriacos Kakouris.

The EIF guarantee agreements are expected to enable at least €100 million of financing to small and medium-sized enterprises for sustainable investment, innovation and digitalisation.