European Investment Bank Lends €50 Million to Lithuania's Water Utility for Infrastructure Upgrade

Strategic Insights -

The European Investment Bank (EIB) has loaned Lithuanian water utility Vilniaus vandenys €50 million to bolster infrastructure in the capital Vilnius. The loan will be used for the upgrade of water and wastewater networks, including the digitization of services and the reduction of water losses. The project, which is backed by an InvestEU guarantee, aims to improve water services, environmental protection, and climate resilience in the region.

Key Takeaways:

  • The EIB loan will be used to upgrade the VirÊíuliÊíkýùs water station, expand infrastructure in the Gulbinai area, and reconstruct the Êáalýìininkai water supply station and treatment facilities.
  • The project will also enhance the wastewater network through the construction of pressure pipelines and a balancing reservoir.
  • The loan is backed by an InvestEU guarantee and aligns with key InvestEU policy objectives, advancing EU priorities and directing funds where they are most needed.
  • The project will facilitate the implementation of EU water and environmental legislation and reduce environmental impact.
  • Around half of the loan will be allocated to smart city solutions, including the installation of smart meters and digital tools.

Statistics:

  • €50 million loan from the EIB to support infrastructure upgrade in Vilnius region.
  • 20-year maturity period for the EIB loan.
  • 99,000 cubic meters of drinking water supplied daily by Vilniaus vandenys.
  • 116,000 cubic meters of wastewater treated daily by Vilniaus vandenys.
  • €76 million invested by Vilniaus vandenys over the past two years in improving service quality, supply reliability, and environmental protection.
  • €449 million in EIB Group financing in Lithuania last year, spurring business investments and accelerating the country's green transition.

Sources:

  • European Investment Bank (Oct. 16)
  • Investment Bank (Oct. 16)