The CEO of Enaon, Ms Barbara Morgante, gave an interview to journalist Mr Giorgos Fintikakis for the special edition “Turning Points” of Euro2day and The New York Times.
Read the interview below:
Robust natural gas networks mean energy security
Geopolitical upheavals and instability in international energy markets are bringing the critical role of natural gas and the need for a more resilient energy system back into focus. In this context, the diversification of supply sources, along with investments in modern infrastructure, are emerging as key strategic pillars. Barbara Morgante, CEO of Enaon, explains how new challenges are shaping investment priorities, the role of “smart” networks, and how the ambitious plan to expand natural gas into new regions of Greece is progressing.
Recent developments in the Middle East and disruptions in global energy markets have once again highlighted the strategic role of natural gas. How do you view the need to diversify supply sources?
Recent geopolitical developments and volatility in global energy markets have highlited how important it is for an energy system not to depend on a single source or region. Diversifying natural gas supply sources is essential to reduce dependency and enhance system resilience.
From the perspective of a distribution company, this translates into something very practical: ensuring that energy reliably reaches end users, regardless of international developments. Distribution networks represent the link between global energy markets and the real economy.
The experience of the Italgas Group, Europe’s largest gas distribution operators, clearly shows that strong and modern networks are a key factor in building a resilient energy system.
Does today’s geopolitical environment encourage investment in energy infrastructure, or does uncertainty act as a deterrent?
Geopolitical uncertainty undouptedly creates challenges, but it also highlights the urgency of investmenting in resilient energy infrastructure, which remains a cornerstone element of energy security and transition.
For us, strengthening and modernising the network is a strategic priority. We are investing in digitalising our infrastructure, rolling out cutting-edge smart meters and adopting advanced technologies that allow us to manage the network more efficiently.
At the same time, gas networks are not only about today’s energy needs. They are infrastructures capable of supporting the future of energy, including renewable gases such as biomethane and, eventually, hydrogen.Our focus remains on balancing security, sustainability, and affordability.
After so many energy crises, what have we learned about making infrastructure more effective and strengthening the role of digitalised networks?
Recent crises have shown that flexibility, resilience, and real-time visibility are essential for effective energy infrastructure. Digitalised networks play a key role by enabling better monitoring, predictive maintenance, and faster response to disruptions. They also enhance efficiency and support the integration of new, lower-carbon solutions. Ultimately, investing in smarter infrastructure strengthens both security of supply and operational performance.
How is Enaon’s plan progressing to expand natural gas to seven new cities by 2026?
We are steadily implementing our plan to expand the network in Epirus and Western Greece, bringing natural gas to new areas such as Arta, Preveza, Igoumenitsa, Ioannina, Patras, Agrinio and Pyrgos. Expanding to seven new cities brings natural gas to communities, lowers costs and supports local development.
This represents a major infrastructure plan that goes beyond techincal expansion: it enhances regional access to a more efficient and competitive energy source for households and businesses while supporting local economic development.
At the same time, we are digitising the infrastructure and operational processes of the network, leveraging advanced technologies and solutions already successfully implemented in other European markets by the Italgas Group.
This initiative is supported by €1 billion investment program as part of the strategic plan of the Italgas Group aimed at strengthening the security, sustainability and competitiveness of Greece’s energy system.
When announcing the 2026–2030 plan, you mentioned 258,000 new consumers, over 2,000 km of new network and the replacement of all meters with smart devices. Which targets will be achieved this year?
Today, the network managed by our subsidiary Enaon EDA across more than 117 municipalities in Greece serves over 655,000 consumers, covering the energy needs of households, businesses, public buildings and industries.
For this year, we estimate that new connections will reach approximately 42,000, confirming that investment in natural gas remains economically sound for households and businesses.
Regarding the replacement of conventional meters with smart devices, the large-scale rollout began in October 2025 and is progressing according to plan, with completion targeted for 2030 as foreseen in the Development Plan submitted to the Regulatory Authority for Waste, Energy and Water. In practice this ensures a modern, reliable network that will continue to support Greece’s transition to a more flexible, sustianable and commpetitive energy system.
Source: euro2day.gr