Projects for the expansion, conversion or modernization of natural gas transmission and distribution networks will receive financing from the Environmental Fund, on the condition of adapting the networks to integrate gases with low carbon emissions, by capitalizing on GHG certificates, it is stated in a press release of the Ministry of Environment, Water and Forests (MMAP).

In order to allow the granting of financing and management by the Administration of the Environment Fund (AFM), the Government adopted, on Wednesday, an Emergency Ordinance that modifies and completes GEO no. 196/2005 regarding the Environment Fund.

According to the relevant ministry, the financing of projects to modernize and expand gas networks will contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, especially those from burning wood for heating, and to achieving the goals of reducing carbon emissions necessary for preventing dangerous climate change.

The direct beneficiaries of these financings will be the Administrative-Territorial Units and their subdivisions, which will coordinate the necessary works.

“The Ordinance also introduces the possibility of granting pre-financing from the Environment Fund budget for projects carried out by administrative-territorial units, public institutions and public administration authorities. This simplified mechanism eliminates bureaucracy, replacing previous procedures and allowing the start of projects with up to 30% pre-financing from the eligible value of the financing contract”, the AFM press release states.