Are you developing a cross-border energy or CO₂ infrastructure project? And is your project included on the current PCI/PMI Union list? Then CEF Energy may be a key funding route for your project. The European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA) is expected to announce the next CEF Energy 2026 calls soon, with an anticipated application deadline in September or October 2026.

Although the official publication is still forthcoming, experience shows that these calls move quickly. As a result, the strongest applicants typically start preparing their proposal well before the call is officially published. If you are considering an application, now is the right time to start preparing your project and application strategy.

What can you receive funding for?

CEF Energy supports the development and implementation of strategic cross-border energy infrastructure projects. Funding is typically available for two main categories:

• Studies: Preparatory and technical activities that increase project maturity, such as:
  • Feasibility studies
  • Technical design and FEED studies
  • Environmental and permitting documentation
  • Technical studies
  • Market analysis
• Works: Implementation and construction activities for eligible infrastructure investments.

PCI/PMI status and upcoming renewal round

Please note that PCI/PMI status is a key eligibility condition for CEF Energy funding. If your project’s PCI/PMI status needs to be renewed towards the end of this year, it is advisable to start that process in parallel with your CEF preparation. The Union list is adopted every two years, and promoters need to re-apply during the next selection cycle to secure continuity into the next 2‑year period. The PCI/PMI status will be renewed at the end of this year during a new application round.

Not yet part of a PCI/PMI project?

Projects that are not yet included on the Union list will also have an opportunity. The next application round for the PCI/PMI list is expected by the end of the year and will determine which projects are included for the following 2-year period. If your project has strong cross-border relevance and contributes to European energy infrastructure priorities, this may be the right moment to prepare an application for the upcoming PCI/PMI selection round.

Why preparation is key for a successful CEF Energy 2026 application

A strong CEF Energy proposal is built long before the submission deadline. Early preparation allows project promoters to strengthen their proposal and address potential bottlenecks in time. Key aspects to focus on include:

• Eligibility and PCI/PMI status: Confirm alignment with your coordinator and regional group, and make sure your status remains valid.
• Project stakeholder management and lobby: Maintain strong engagement with project partners and stakeholders and ensure alignment at regional, national and European policy levels.
• Project documentation for CEF Works applications: For CEF Works proposals in particular, it is essential to develop or update key documents such as the Business Plan, Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) and if applicable the Cross-Border Cost Allocation decision (CBCA-decision).
• Project maturity and permitting: Increase the project technical, legal and financial maturity level. Speed up the permitting and authorizations pathway, key milestones, and solve bottlenecks where possible (land ownership, public consultations, (concept-) loan agreements, concept offtaker agreements, grid connections).

How we support your CEF Energy grant

What we deliver in support of your CEF Energy grant:

• Impact story: translate your project scope to optimally match TEN-E priorities;
• Support the preparation of a TEN-E PCI/PMI list application;
• Support drafting and reviewing the Business Plan and CBA for CEF WORKS applications;
• Execute a call-fit check, SWOT and advise on best CEF application strategy;
• GAP analysis identifying missing CEF supporting documents;
• Build a clear action plan and planning towards CEF submission;
• Support drafting, review and final submission of the CEF Energy application.
• Coordinate your grant management once your project has been selected for funding!

Plan a CEF Energy readiness session with our specialists

With the expected CEF Energy call approaching and PCI/PMI processes running in parallel, the coming months will be crucial seeking CEF Energy funding. Our specialists closely monitor developments around the upcoming call and have extensive experience supporting CEF Energy applications and PCI/PMI procedures. If you would like to explore your funding opportunities or start preparing your application, we would be happy to discuss how we can support your project during a CEF Energy readiness session. Send an email to info@hezelburcht.com, call 088 495 20 00 or fill in our contact form:

Plan a CEF Energy readiness session