Brussels, 24/03/2010 (Agence Europe) - The European Commission and European Investment Bank (EIB) expect the European Local Energy Assistance (ELENA) facility, launched in December (see EUROPE 10041) to provide support of more than €1 billion for energy efficiency, renewable energy and sustainable transport projects in 2010. At the launch of the EU's Sustainable Energy Week, the Commission announced that a first agreement with the province of Barcelona would be signed in April. The EIB is currently in detailed discussions with 16 other cities or regions about their investment plans to increase energy efficiency and develop renewable energy. Given the great interest shown by the cities and regions in the ELENA programme (more than 200 cities or regions have already sought information), Energy Commissioner Günther Oettinger has announced his intention to double the funding for ELENA from €15 million in 2010 to €30 million the next year. (E.H./transl.rt)