The European Investment Bank (EIB) has signed a €250 million financing agreement with the Athens Water Supply and Sewerage Company (EYDAP) to support a €514 million investment programme aimed at modernising and upgrading water supply and wastewater services for over four million residents in the Attica region. This marks the first time EYDAP has secured long-term financing to implement its strategic investment plan, which will be carried out between 2025 and 2030. The programme is designed to enhance the reliability, safety, and sustainability of water services while helping Athens adapt to climate change impacts such as drought.
The investment programme includes a comprehensive set of infrastructure upgrades, including the replacement and modernisation of water supply and wastewater networks, upgrades to treatment plants, installation of smart meters, deployment of digital systems, and energy efficiency measures. These improvements aim to improve water quality, protect public health, reduce environmental pollution, and ensure compliance with EU water and environmental directives.
EIB Vice President Yannis Tsakiris highlighted the importance of access to clean and safe water as a cornerstone for public health, social cohesion, and economic resilience. He emphasised that the modernisation of EYDAP’s infrastructure, including smart meters and energy-efficient solutions, will reduce water losses, cut emissions, and make Athens more resilient to climate challenges. Greek Minister of Environment and Energy, Stavros Papastavrou, underscored the partnership’s role in tackling chronic water scarcity and ensuring affordable, quality water for the population.
EYDAP leadership expressed strong support for the partnership. Chairman Giorgos Stergiou noted the trust placed in EYDAP by the EIB to deliver critical infrastructure projects, while CEO Haris Sachinis highlighted the project’s alignment with EYDAP’s vision of transforming into a modern, climate-resilient water utility capable of meeting future challenges.
The financing also supports Greece’s broader policy goals, including climate action, environmental sustainability, social and territorial cohesion, the EU Green Deal, and national strategies for sustainable water management. EIB Advisory support through the InvestEU Advisory Hub assisted EYDAP in shaping a climate-resilient strategy and preparing the investment programme. The €250 million loan will cover up to half of the current €514 million programme, with the remainder funded by EYDAP’s resources and potential commercial financing.
This investment is part of EYDAP’s larger infrastructure plan totaling approximately €2.1 billion and reinforces EU objectives for climate resilience, sustainable water management, and long-term social cohesion in the Attica region.