Two EU-funded projects in Greece smong REGIOSTARS 2026 finalists

The nominated projects are “Grant to GASTRADE S.A. Natural Gas Construction and Engineering Company for the implementation of the ‘Alexandroupolis Independent Natural Gas System (INGS)’ project” and “Interconnection of Crete with the Hellenic Electricity Transmission System (Phase II): 2 × 500 MW HVDC Interconnection, Crete–Attica / Stage 2.”

The REGIOSTARS Awards are the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Regional and Urban Policy (DG REGIO)’s annual awards recognising and rewarding the best projects financed by the European Funds that contribute to the regional development of EU regions. Organised since 2008, they are widely regarded as the European Union’s “seal of excellence” for projects delivering significant economic, social, or environmental impact.

The 2026 edition marked a record year, with 274 entries submitted from the 27 EU Member States. The selection of the two Greek projects highlights the high quality and strong competitiveness of Greece’s participation, while further enhancing the country’s international profile. It also reflects the core objectives of the REGIOSTARS Awards, namely promoting innovation and competitiveness, supporting the green transition, strengthening connectivity, encouraging the dissemination of innovative solutions and best practices, and fostering the sustainable development of local communities.

The shortlisted projects in the “A Green Europe” and “A Connected Europe” categories will be presented during the European Week of Regions and Cities, to be held in Brussels from 12 to 15 October. The public will also have the opportunity to vote for the People’s Choice Award, with online voting open from 3 September to 14 October. The winners of each category, together with the recipient of the People’s Choice Award, will be announced during the REGIOSTARS Awards Ceremony on the evening of 14 October.