>@EIB/Renfe

The European Investment Bank (EIB) has granted a EUR 600 million loan to Spanish state company Renfe Operadora to finance investment in the modernisation of train stations, installation of wifi in stations and trains and purchase of rolling stock. The loan contract was signed in Madrid by EIB Vice-President Román Escolano and Renfe’s CEO, Pablo Vázquez, in the presence of the Minister of Public Works, Ana Pastor.

When signing the contract the EIB Vice-President stressed the importance of the investments financed under this operation, which would involve “upgrading the public transport – and especially clean transport – network in order to attract users and improve quality and service standards”. He also drew attention to the “the excellent long-standing cooperation between the European Investment Bank and its counterparts in the Public Works Ministry and Renfe”.

The EIB funds will be used to improve stations and existing facilities on the Spanish rail network and purchase new trains to be employed mainly on high speed lines. These schemes are aimed at fostering sustainable transport, increasing the reliability, efficiency and quality of the service, providing additional capacity and improving energy efficiency.

The investments form part of Renfe’s different strategic plans to increase accessibility in stations, enhance safety, improve passenger information in buildings and on platforms, and provide dedicated staff to help people with reduced mobility.