On 26 February 2025, the European Commission (EC) published a plan to make the European industry more sustainable while strengthening its competitiveness: the Clean Industrial Deal (CID). Due to high energy prices and strong global competition, the European industry requires support. The plan introduces a range of measures focused on decarbonisation and competitiveness, with more than € 100 billion in funding made available.

Clean Industrial Deal for a sustainable and climate-neutral economy

The Clean Industrial Deal is designed to reduce industrial emissions and accelerate the transition to a sustainable and climate-neutral economy. In addition, the plan aims to strengthen competitiveness by ensuring that European businesses remain competitive globally.

What opportunities does the Clean Industrial Deal offer?

European industry is currently struggling with high energy prices and competitive pressure. For this reason, the CID aims to help reduce energy costs, create high-quality jobs, and provide the right conditions for businesses to thrive. The CID includes concrete measures focusing on:

Energy-intensive industries

These include sectors such as steel, chemicals and metals, which require support to reduce CO₂ emissions, switch to clean energy and balance high costs with strong competition.

Cleantech sector

This refers to innovations that promote sustainability, such as renewable energy and the circular economy. This sector forms the foundation of Europe’s future competitiveness and is therefore crucial for industrial transformation, circularity and decarbonisation.
Circularity is also an important theme within the CID. The deal, therefore, also focuses on extending the lifespan of materials and reducing waste.

What measures does the Clean Industrial Deal include?

Affordable energy

To lower energy prices for industry, businesses and households, and to support the shift to a low-carbon economy, the EC has adopted the Affordable Energy Action Plan. The plan aims to:

• Accelerate the roll-out of clean energy to boost electrification;
• Complete the internal energy market through physical interconnections;
• Use energy more efficiently and reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels.

Stimulating clean products

The Industrial Decarbonisation Accelerator Act will increase demand for clean products manufactured in the EU by introducing sustainability, resilience and “Made-in-Europe” criteria.

Funding for a clean transition

Within the CID, more than € 100 billion will be mobilised to support clean production in Europe:

• The EC has adopted a new state-aid framework for the CID. This ensures quicker approval of state aid for the roll-out of renewable energy, industrial decarbonisation and sufficient clean-energy manufacturing capacity;
• The Innovation Fund will be reinforced through the Industrial Decarbonisation Bank with € 100 billion;
• Under the Horizon Europe programme, a dedicated call will be launched to stimulate research and innovation in these areas;
• The EC intends to amend the InvestEU programme to increase its financial guarantees. This is expected to generate an additional € 50 billion for clean technology, clean mobility and waste reduction.

Schedule a meeting with a specialist

Would you like more information about the Clean Industrial Deal, or are you curious about the opportunities it may offer your organisation? Schedule a meeting with one of our specialists to discuss the possibilities. They will be happy to assist you. Contact us at info@hezelburcht.com, 088 495 20 00 or fill in the contact form: