Climate Investment Plans Analysis - May 2025
- itassociate9
- May 8
- 1 min read
BwB is proud to share a newly conducted analysis that makes the case for why European cities should invest in secure and resilient infrastructure.
The analysis estimates an incremental capital expenditure of €307 billion - an essential and strategic investment in the decarbonisation of European cities, with the potential to save €308 billion in recurring operational costs and generate €87 billion in quantifiable indirect economic benefits (co-benefits) such as improved air quality and enhanced
physical health - i.e. total benefits of at least €394 billion.
Beyond the numbers, the findings provide strong direction for critical policy priorities:
Energy Security: With targeted investment in heating decarbonisation, grid upgrades, and renewable energy generation, cities are actively strengthening Europe’s energy resilience.
Sustainable Infrastructure: From the electrification of public transport to large-scale building retrofits, the data confirms that infrastructure is a central lever for reaching net zero while enhancing quality of life and generating positive economic value for society at large.
Economic Resilience & Investment-Readiness: The analysis highlights how well-structured climate investment plans can unlock both operational savings and broader economic benefits. With approximately €277 billion in non-municipal capital required, cities are positioning themselves as credible, investable partners for businesses, citizens, and public actors alike - supporting a transition that is socially, economically, and politically viable.
For every €1 invested, cities could generate at least €1.28 in direct and indirect benefits - making this not just a climate imperative, but a sound economic opportunity.
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