Wednesday, 29 October 2025
Dublin Airport Secures €288m EIB Loan to Drive Major Sustainability Upgrades Dublin Airport is set to advance a series of major sustainability upgrades following the confirmation of a €288 million long-term loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB). The airport’s operator, daa, will use the funding as part of a €627 million programme aimed at […]
Dublin Airport is set to advance a series of major sustainability upgrades following the confirmation of a €288 million long-term loan from the European Investment Bank (EIB).
The airport’s operator, daa, will use the funding as part of a €627 million programme aimed at reducing emissions, improving water management, and increasing energy efficiency across the airport campus.
The aviation sector faces one of the most complex paths to decarbonisation of any major industry. Aircraft fuel remains a significant source of emissions, while airports themselves consume large amounts of electricity and water daily. Infrastructure operators like daa are increasingly recognised as key players in helping the sector transition to lower-carbon operations.
While aircraft technology advances, such as sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and electric propulsion, are still developing, airport-based emissions reductions are a critical part of the interim solution. Energy-efficient terminals, electric vehicle (EV) fleets, and renewable power sourcing can significantly reduce ground operations’ environmental impact while supporting Ireland’s national climate objectives.
According to the EIB, the financing will support the installation of new electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure throughout the airport and the modernisation of water and wastewater treatment systems. These upgrades will help shift both airside and landside vehicle fleets to zero-emission alternatives and strengthen resource management during periods of high airport activity.
The investment forms part of the EIB’s wider commitment to climate action and environmental sustainability and aligns with daa’s stated goal of decarbonising airport operations.
EIB Vice President Ioannis Tsakiris said:
“Dublin Airport plays a vital role as Ireland’s international gateway and a hub connecting communities and businesses across Europe and the world.
The EIB is proud to support this ambitious investment that will make the airport greener, more efficient, and more resilient.”
In addition to the EIB loan, daa has also secured a €2.33 million grant from the European Union’s Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) to further advance its sustainability initiatives.
daa Chief Executive Kenny Jacobs said the combined investment marks an important step forward for Dublin Airport:
“Today marks a real step forward for Dublin Airport. With the EIB’s backing, we’re able to push ahead with major upgrades that will make a genuine difference in rolling out EV charging at scale, modernising how we manage water, and switching our terminals to renewable energy sources.
These projects aren’t just about cutting emissions; they’re about making the airport work better for everyone including our passengers, customers, and staff, as well as the wider community.”
The partnership between daa and the European Investment Bank spans more than 30 years. Previous EIB loans have supported major airport infrastructure projects, including terminal expansions, runway works, and other developments at Dublin and Cork airports.
Notable previous EIB financings include:
€125 million in 2001
€115 million in 2003
€200 million in 2008
€260 million in 2009
€350 million in 2019
Over the past decade, the EIB has provided more than €7.6 billion in funding for airport investments across Europe and globally, focusing on safety, operational resilience, and sustainability.
In a separate sustainability initiative, Trinity College Dublin recently unveiled a new carbon capture technology currently being tested at Dublin Airport. The project, funded by a European Innovation Council (EIC) Transition grant and supported by Enterprise Ireland, is known as AirInMotion. It aims to demonstrate the potential of this technology for use in the aviation and e-fuel industries.
With EIB backing and EU support, Dublin Airport is poised to make substantial progress toward its net-zero emissions targets. The upgrades will play a crucial role in making operations more energy-efficient, resource-conscious, and environmentally responsible.
The initiatives now underway are part of a broader effort to ensure Dublin Airport can meet the challenges of future growth while maintaining its position as a leader in sustainable airport operations in Europe.
The €288 million EIB loan represents a significant milestone in Dublin Airport’s long-term sustainability strategy. By investing in EV infrastructure, modern water systems, and renewable energy integration, daa is advancing both operational efficiency and environmental stewardship.
Supported by decades of collaboration with the EIB and new European partnerships, Dublin Airport’s latest programme underscores Ireland’s commitment to decarbonisation and innovation, ensuring that one of the country’s busiest transport hubs becomes cleaner, greener, and better equipped for the future.
At All-Ireland Sustainability, we’re committed to building a greener, fairer island, together. Stay informed on the latest environmental initiatives, community action, and policy developments shaping sustainability across Ireland, North and South.
👉 Sign up for our newsletter today and be the first to hear about upcoming events, expert insights, and ways to get involved.
Whether you’re a seasoned advocate or just starting your journey, new members are always welcome.
Subscribe now and be part of the All-Ireland Sustainability Membership.