EU taxonomy: JAF Group invests 100% sustainably with the help of RBI
Read how the JAF Group was able to realize a 100% sustainable project with the help of RBI.
Companies are integrating sustainability into their business strategies to comply with ESG regulations and promote a future worth living. By implementing sustainable financial solutions in line with the EU taxonomy, they reap benefits such as cost savings, innovation, and increased competitiveness.
A best practice report shows how JAF-Group AG ("J. u. A. Frischeis") found a tailor-made, 100% sustainable financing solution with the help of RBI.
JAF Group: Advanced photovoltaic systems cut energy costs and reduce emissions
JAF-Group AG ("J. u. A. Frischeis"), based in Stockerau, Germany, is intensively involved in sustainability and takes responsibility for the environment, its employees and society. Since its foundation in 1948, the JAF Group has developed into an international timber wholesaler and is deeply rooted in the regions surrounding its 71 locations.
JAF-Group AG recently set another milestone in the implementation of its sustainability strategy by switching to renewable energy. Together with its subsidiaries, the group is investing in the construction of photovoltaic systems not only in Austria, but also at its locations in Slovakia, Romania, Croatia, and Hungary.
"In addition to reducing our own energy costs, we are also able to sustainably reduce emissions," says Wilfrid Fabjani, CEO of JAF-Group AG.
Why use sustainable financing?
Linking sustainable financing to capital projects signals a commitment to sustainability and provides capital. While companies may fear higher costs, studies show that sustainable practices can save money in the long run, for example by investing in energy-efficient technologies.
Financing solutions with monetary benefits or ESG-linked conditions offer attractive options and incentivize corporate sustainability performance.
In the case of the JAF Group, the RBI Sustainable Loan was the ideal solution, as it offers attractive conditions and can be described as taxonomy-compliant financing in the sustainability report.
Customized taxonomy-compliant financing
In discussions with the sustainable finance experts at Raiffeisen Bank International, the JAF Group was able to develop a customized package for its sustainable project. Maximilian Plank, Head of Business Development & Innovation in Export & Investment Finance at RBI, explains: "The company received EU tax-compliant financing from RBI for the construction of the photovoltaic systems. We are very proud to be able to support the transformation of our customers in our home markets towards climate neutrality with tailor-made financing solutions. Especially when it comes to EU taxonomy-compliant financing.“
When is funding EU Taxonomy compliant?
- In principle, it must fall within the scope of the EU Taxonomy ('eligibility').
- It must meet technical criteria and conditions such as "do no significant harm" and "minimum social safeguards" (respect for human rights) - not just "eligible", but "aligned".
- The company has to prove that it meets these criteria (RBI has developed a questionnaire specifically for this purpose).
The transaction therefore meets the strictest requirements for sustainable financing in the EU and is a 100% sustainable project.
Related News
Be the first
Subscribe to Raiffeisen Insights. Get an e-mail with
the latest trends in the world of economics and business.