The CEO of Enaon EDA participated in the 7th Renewable & Storage Forum, highlighting the role of gas networks as a key pillar of the energy transition.
The initiatives for the digital transformation of gas distribution networks in Greece and their preparation for the new era of clean energy, were presented by Ms Francesca Zanninotti, CEO of Hellenic Gas Distribution Company Enaon EDA, a subsidiary of Enaon of the Italgas Group, at the 7th Renewable & Storage Forum, organised by energypress.
The CEO of Enaon EDA spoke yesterday, among other distinguished speakers, in the session entitled: “Hydrogen, Biomethane, Green Gases, CCUS: Projects, Infrastructure, and Timelines”, emphasising the role of gas networks as a fundamental pillar of the energy transition.
As she stressed, achieving the goals of decarbonisation, security of supply and affordability requires multiple complementary solutions supported by digital infrastructure.
“The energy transition cannot rely on a single solution. A combination of technologies and a reliable backup is needed. Natural gas can act as a stabilising factor in the energy system, thanks to the maturity of the technology and its ability to be both flexible and sustainable,” Ms Zanninotti stated, adding: “Our responsibility, as a Gas Distribution Network Operator, is to prepare our infrastructure for the future. Our networks are fully ready to immediately accommodate biomethane. It is time to leverage the experience and expertise of our parent company, Italgas, which has already connected biomethane units to its network in Italy. Let’s not miss the momentum”.
Greece has recently progessed with the necessary legal and regulatory framework for the production, certification, and injection of biomethane into the network. As Ms Zanninotti noted, “the final step required is the establishment of an incentive framework to initiate investments.” She further highlighted that Enaon EDA has submitted to the Regulatory Authority the Standard Connection Agreement for Biomethane Production Units, which is currently under public consultation by the Regulator until October 27. Enaon EDA expects the first biomethane injection into the Greek distribution network in 2026.
Hydrogen is also a highly promising low-carbon gas that will play an important role in the future. Enaon EDA has already begun an assessment study covering over 8,000 km of its network, finding that 90% of it is compatible with hydrogen blends of up to 5%, while continuing efforts to ensure compatibility with blends of up to 20%.
Meanwhile, by the end of 2026, the major project for the upgrading network in the center of Athens will be completed, furhter ensuring the system’s future sustainability and resilience.
“The most important thing is to leverage existing infrastructure, modernise it, and make it smarter, greener, and more resilient. We are fully committed to the energy transition and aware of the role we have to play in it,” concluded Ms Zanninotti.
Today, Enaon EDA manages over 8,700 km of network across 115 municipalities in Greece, while continuing to invest in the digitalisation and expansion of the network, particularly in remote areas of the country, utilising advanced technologies such as small-scale LNG infrastructure projects.
