Estonian agricultural companies given EUR 16 mln to increase security of energy supply

TALLINN - In May, the Estonian Agricultural Registers and Information Board (PRIA) accepted applications for investment support to ensure energy security, on the basis of which a total of 16 million euros in grants was allocated to 238 agricultural enterprises.

The support will help to ensure the availability of energy needed for agricultural production to a greater extent than before, especially in situations where the central energy supply is disrupted. This, in turn, will ensure the security of the food supply chain and the continuity of agricultural enterprises, thereby helping to increase Estonia's food security.

Urmas Saarna, head of the subsidy implementation department at PRIA, said there was considerable interest in the grants.

"This shows that the grants were both expected and necessary. The investments are mainly intended for the purchase of generators and battery banks, which will significantly increase food security, especially in emergency situations," Saarna added.

Initially, eight million was allocated for the application round, but on April 17 this year, this was increased by order of the minister of regional affairs and agriculture, and the final budget for the measure is 18.4 million euros.

The beneficiary must complete the supported activities by Sept. 30, 2025. By that date, all documents proving the implementation of the supported activity must be submitted, and any assets purchased or constructed with the support must also be put to intended use.

Saarna noted that since this support is paid out from the 2014-2020 program period funds, the time to carry out investments is very limited.

"But we hope that applicants have thoroughly planned their projects and that all activities will be completed on time. I would like to specifically point out that if a use and occupancy permit is required for the site, it must also be issued by September 30," he added.

The support will be paid out within three months after the submission of all required documents.