(Finance) – In Italy it is necessary unlock investments in hydropowera sector which is proving to be strategic importance for the energy transition. This is what was stated by Renato MazzonciniCEO of A2Athrowing a appeal to the government, to unblock the stalemate concerning the investments for the modernization of the structures, which amount to approximately 15 billion euros.
“We believe that It would be a mistake to wait until 2029that is, the end of the current concessions, which end up blocking investments”, said Mazzoncini.
The CEO of A2A recalled that the Minister Pichetto Fratin had introduced in the energy decree a proposal that would have given the regions greater flexibility in the management of the concessionsalso allowing for reassignment to current operators in exchange for significant investments. However, this path has not yet been explored.
The presence of conflicting rules, such as the decree competition which also affects the hydroelectric concessionsand the previous closure of the infringement procedure on the part of the EU on this issue, have created an uncertain regulatory framework that discourages investment.
“Now not only is there a new european commissionbut we will also have a commissioner who is hopefully of significant weight and who knows the issue very well”, underlined Mazzoncini, hoping for a quick recovery of dialogue with the European institutions to find a solution that allows unlock investments and ensure the country’s energy security.
Mazzoncini’s appeal highlights the urgency of finding a shared solution to overcome the regulatory impasse and unlock investments in the hydroelectric sector. The energy transition and the country’s energy security depend largely on the ability to modernize and upgrade these plants. It will be essential for the government and European institutions to work in synergy to find a solution that reconciles the objectives of competitiveness with the need to ensure environmental sustainability and energy security.