The project is a plan to construct a sixth unit at the Sostanj lignite-fired power plant in Slovenia. It has received significant backing from European public banks adding up to more than 50% of the overall costs of the investment. Doubts about the economic viability of the project, alleged irregularities in the tendering procedure and its climate impact caused strong opposition to the project within Slovenia.

A recent study conducted by an independent consultant as well as two complaints submitted to the European Commission by NGOs bring new arguments against TES 6.

The study shows how targeted public financial support for energy efficiency, mainly thermal insulation of buildings, helped create jobs and increase economic activity across the Czech Republic.

The letter notifies the EBRD of two complaints filed against the Sostanj lignite thermal power plant unit 6 project and calls on the EBRD to also undertake a thorough review of its involvement in the project, as it seems that when approving the project, some relevant facts were omitted by the bank.

The partnership principle, public participation and transparency are interlinked and basic democratic principles, essential to good governance and sustainable development. They are necessary for Cohesion Policy to ensure that needs and priorities of the people in Europe are effectively taken into account.

We believe improvement is needed to implement these values in the EU funds cycle, specifically with regards to the implementation and development of the European Code of Conduct.