Supporting the launch of Portugal’s first high-speed train
MotaEngil, a leading player in the construction sector in Portugal, has secured two “green-labelled” guarantees covering its €47.6 million equity contribution to the construction of the country’s first highspeed rail line. This transaction illustrates Societe Generale’s commitment to supporting and financing low-carbon projects and the transition toward sustainable mobility.
Present in 21 countries, Mota Engil is one of Portugal’s main groups in the engineering, construction, and infrastructure concessions sectors. Its involvement in major national projects reflects its key role in Portugal’s ongoing transformation.
Modernising the country’s railway infrastructures
In 2022, Portugal unveiled a national railway plan aimed at promoting greener mobility solutions. Its objective: to meet the environmental targets set at COP 27 and integrate the country into the European rail network.
Porto–Lisbon in 1 hour 15 minutes
Among the flagship initiatives is the construction of Portugal’s first high-speed rail line, connecting Lisbon and Porto. Supported by financing from the European Investment Bank (EIB) and leading financial institutions, this project represents a key driver of the country’s economic growth.
Once operational in 2030, the high-speed line will link Lisbon and Porto in just 1 hour and 15 minutes, saving nearly two hours for the line’s ten million annual passengers. This will be a major asset for citizens’ mobility and the competitiveness of the region.
This new connection will enhance Portugal’s regional and international connectivity, encourage the use of a sustainable mode of transport, and help reduce emissions associated with road traffic.
Securing the project owner’s equity contribution
To support the development of this major infrastructure, Societe Generale structured and issued two “green-labelled” bank guarantees totalling €47.6 million. These guarantees secure the equity commitments of MotaEngil, the project leader and major shareholder of the concession company Avan Norte.
Through these “green-labelled” guarantees, Societe Generale is contributing to the development of Portugal’s first high-speed rail line.
By supporting this project, Societe Generale plays an active role in Portugal’s sustainable economic development while promoting the transformation of its railway system in line with European climate ambitions.
The launch of Portugal’s first high speed rail line marks a decisive step in modernizing the country’s transport infrastructure. Mota Engil is proud to contribute its expertise to a project that will transform connectivity between Lisbon and Porto, enhance regional competitiveness, and deliver lasting economic and environmental benefits for Portugal. This project reflects our ambition to support strategic national initiatives that shape a more resilient and low carbon future
By structuring and issuing green labelled guarantees to secure Mota Engil’s equity contribution, Societe Generale is supporting the delivery of a landmark infrastructure project for Portugal. This transaction illustrates how innovative trade finance solutions can play a concrete role in accelerating sustainable mobility and financing the transition to low carbon transport systems.
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