Networks
Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T)
Objective
The Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) is a set of rail, road, air, and water transport networks in the European Union. It provides integrated and intermodal long-distance, high-speed routes across the continent by eliminating border obstacles and closing gaps that hinder cross-border traffic. This ‘flagship’ project of EU Transport Policy aims to develop European transport infrastructure and establish a Single European Transport Area (SERA).
The TEN-T network for rail (amongst other modes) is governed by Regulation (EU) No 1315/2013 on Union guidelines for the development of the trans-European transport network. On 14th December 2021, the European Commission (EC) presented a comprehensive proposal to revise the TEN-T Guidelines. The proposal introduced an intermediary network layer to be completed by 2040, in addition to the a) core network, which should be completed by 2030 and b) the comprehensive network, which should be completed by 2050. In addition, the EC proposed to merge Rail Freight Corridors (RFCs) with TEN-T corridors into European Transport Corridors (ETCs). The proposal also outlined more ambitious technical and operational requirements for rail infrastructure.
In July 2022, following Russia’s military aggression against Ukraine, the EC published an amended proposal to extend the TEN-T network to Ukraine and Moldova, while removing connections to Russia and Belarus. It also proposed harmonising track gauges to the European standard.
In June 2024, the final revised TEN-T Regulation (EU 2024/1679) was published.
In September 2024, the EC appointed new TEN-T coordinators and reconfirmed the ERTMS Coordinator to oversee key projects.
In November 2024, the Commissioner for Transport confirmed the EC’s intention to close the TEN-T gaps – aiming for the completion of the TEN-T Core network by 2030 – and to address military mobility on the TEN-T network. This will require a significant budget under the post-2027 multiannual financial framework (MFF).
EIM actions in 2024
- EIM produced several in-depth analyses of the final agreement and its implications for rail infrastructure managers (IMs).
- EIM monitored the nomination of new TEN-T Coordinators and the ERTMS Coordinator.
- EIM organised technical discussions within its Technical WG TIA, including a Deep Dive on 9th September 2024 to assess the impact of core network requirements.
- EIM engaged in ongoing discussions on funding needs for the next CEF period (2028-2034).
- EIM participated in bilateral meetings with the EIB and CINEA to explore alternative funding mechanisms for rail projects.
Outlook 2025
- EIM will continue monitoring the implementation of the revised TEN-T Regulation.
- EIM will closely monitor the EU/NATO Military Mobility Action Plan as well as all European initiatives on military mobility and their impact on the TEN-T network and rail infrastructure managers.
- EIM will engage in discussions on TEN-T funding priorities under the next CEF, with negotiations starting in mid-2025.
- EIM will support its members in adapting to the new technical and operational requirements set by the revised TEN-T framework.
Regulation (EU) 1315/2013 on Guidelines on the development of TEN-T
Rail Freight Corridors (RFCs)
Facts & context
Topic
Rail Freight Corridors (RFCs) were established to enhance freight transport by rail. Regulation 913/2010 on the creation of a European rail network for competitive freight aims to:
a) foster cooperation among stakeholders, including Member States and Rail Infrastructure Managers (IMs);
b) coordinate capacity offers;
c) improve traffic management;
d) support infrastructure maintenance, development, and usage conditions;
e) harmonise processes and operational rules; and
f) facilitate investment planning and coordination.
Each RFC is subject to an annual performance report and customer satisfaction survey to monitor its effectiveness.
The revised TEN-T Regulation, adopted in June 2024, introduced European Transport Corridors, merging the RFC corridors with the TEN-T corridors to streamline freight and passenger transport planning.
As part of its Capacity Management proposal published on 11th July 2023, the European Commission (EC) plans to repeal the RFC Regulation (913/2010) by December 2029, integrating its objectives into a new regulatory framework for infrastructure capacity management. The trilogue negotiation on this proposal started end of 2024.
EIM in action
- EIM participated in the various platforms related to RFCs;
- EIM supported the principle that RFCs contribute to the decarbonisation of transport by facilitating a modal shift for freight from road to rail. This goal has become even more relevant within the context of the EU Green Deal published in 2019 and the “EU Strategy for Sustainable and Smart Mobility” published in 2020. The latter targets an increase of 50% of rail freight by 2030 and of 100% by 2050.
- Infrastructure managers will need to cater for the growing volumes of freight on track, which will require more investments in physical and digital assets.
- EIM will also closely monitor the evolution of the RFCs regarding the implementation of the future TEN-T framework, especially in terms of governance, responsibilities and requirements.
EIM actions in 2024
- EIM closely followed all initiatives of the European Commission to revise the RFCs.
- EIM participated in numerous public consultations of the EU related to RFCs.
- EIM participated in all meetings of the Sector Statement Group (SSG).
Outlook 2025
- EIM will continue to monitor and actively participate in the EU revision process of Regulation 913/2010, particularly in the context of the trilogue negotiations on capacity regulation.
- EIM will take part in the EU impact assessment, targeted interviews, and questionnaires related to the revision of the Regulation.
- EIM will closely monitor the integration of RFCs into the TEN-T Corridors and assess its impact on governance, responsibilities, and investment needs.
Regulation (EU) No 913/2010
European rail network for competitive freight