The construction sector is becoming more sustainable, and the government is helping out. The Clean and Emission Free Construction Equipment Subsidy Scheme (SSEB) is available again in 2026. With increased subsidy amounts, new categories and increased budgets for innovation, the SSEB offers excellent opportunities for entrepreneurs.

In this article, we'll list all the details of the SSEB 2026 and compare the scheme to 2025, so you know exactly where you stand.

What is the SSEB 2026?

The SSEB subsidy encourages companies in the construction sector to invest in machines that emit fewer nitrogen, CO2 and particulate matter. The scheme is divided into three tracks:

1. Purchase: For new zero-emission construction equipment (purchase or financial lease).
2. Retrofit: For converting existing machines to zero-emission machines.
3. Innovation: For the development of new techniques and feasibility studies.

Important Dates 2026

Put these dates in your agenda in advance:

• Purchase & Retrofit: Applications can be made from March 3, 2026 to October 30, 2026
• Innovation: Applications can be made from May 12, 2026 to October 30, 2026.

SSEB 2026 vs. 2025: The 5 Biggest Differences

Although the total budget remains the same (€65 million), significant improvements have been made.

1. Higher maximum subsidies

The subsidy ceilings have been significantly extended, making the purchase of heavy equipment more attractive:

• Per machine (<300 kW): Maximum €300,000 subsidy.
• Per machine (≥300 kW): Maximum €500,000 subsidy.
• Per company: You can now receive up to €1.5 million per calendar year (for Purchase and Retrofit together).

2. More attractive percentages

The subsidy percentages over the additional costs are a lot better. SMEs will receive a 30% subsidy this year and large companies will receive 25%.

Please note: As in 2025, there is no settlement with the MIA. You get the full percentage.

3. More Flexibility and Categories

The list of eligible machines has been expanded. Watch this page for the new list.

4. Boost for Innovation

For experimental development, the maximum grant amount has been increased by no less than 50% to €1,500,000 per project. This offers space for larger, more complex R&D processes, for example around network congestion solutions.

5. Budget Security

The €65 million budget is ready. Although the formal approval of the budget by the Senate is still ongoing, RVO will simply start assessing applications from March.

Conclusion: Get ready now

The SSEB 2026 is even more powerful on many fronts than its 2025 predecessor, especially for SMEs (30% subsidy) and parties that want to purchase or develop heavy equipment. Do a free subsidy scan and find out immediately if your project qualifies.