In the Smart Cities Marketplace Financing Masterclass, held in collaboration with the European Green Capital initiative, a diverse panel of experts and city representatives came together to explore innovative financing mechanisms that support sustainable urban transformation across Europe.
The session opened with welcome remarks from François Wakenhut, Head of Unit at DG ENV, and Georg Houben, Policy Officer at DG ENER, both representing the European Commission. Their introductions set the tone for a dynamic exchange on how cities can access and leverage funding to accelerate their green transitions.
Luigi Lo Piparo introduced the Smart Cities Marketplace, emphasising its role as a key enabler for EU cities to connect with investors, access technical assistance, and scale up smart and sustainable solutions.
Jorge Rodrigues de Almeida provided a comprehensive overview of innovative financing solutions, highlighting viable business models, diverse capital sources, and the principles that underpin financial sustainability for urban projects.
From the city of Cascais, Nuno Cunha Lopes presented the Just Energy Transition Fund for Families, a pioneering initiative offering financial aid, technical support, and community engagement to help low- and middle-income households reduce energy bills and adopt clean energy technologies.
Jordi Mazón Bueso, representing Viladecans City Council, showcased the Vilawatt bond system, a local digital currency initiative that rewards citizens for sustainable behaviour. These “green points” can be exchanged for Vilawatt Green Bonds, usable at local businesses, creating a circular economy model rooted in clean energy consumption.
Finally, Laurianne Jaskolski from Lille Metropole introduced the GREENMO project, which aims to cut GHG emissions by 37% by 2035. The project includes investments in tram-train systems, cycling infrastructure, and clean public transport vehicles. She also outlined the role of the Public Sector Loan Facility under the Just Transition Mechanism, explaining how it supports cities in achieving their climate goals.
This masterclass underscored the importance of tailored financial instruments and collaborative governance in driving Europe’s urban green transition.