Italian energy group Enel is in preliminary talks with Masdar, the state-owned renewable energy company of Abu Dhabi, for a potential joint project to develop energy storage capacity in Italy. This initiative aligns with a broader strategy to support the country’s growing renewable power production.
Expanding cooperation between Enel and Masdar
Enel and Masdar already collaborate on a portfolio of renewable energy assets located in Spain. The two companies are now exploring the possibility of extending their cooperation to additional markets. Flavio Cattaneo, Chief Executive Officer of Enel, stated at a business conference in Milan that talks with Masdar are specifically focused on battery and storage system projects in Italy.
“There is a common understanding to move forward also in other geographies, including Italy, where Masdar is interested in batteries and storage systems, and we are very happy to have partners,” said Mr. Cattaneo.
Meeting the growing need for grid flexibility
As renewable energy production increases in Italy, the need to develop energy storage infrastructure is becoming more pressing. These installations are essential to release energy when solar or wind generation is unavailable, thereby ensuring grid stability.
National electricity grid operator Terna S.p.A. plans to launch an auction for purchasing energy storage capacity at the end of September. This initiative is expected to create opportunities for industrial stakeholders seeking to invest in this strategic segment of Italy’s power system.
An investment dynamic aligned with national priorities
Talks between Enel and Masdar come as Italy aims to strengthen its energy resilience by diversifying supply sources and upgrading infrastructure. Although technical details of the potential project have not yet been disclosed, the expressed intent to collaborate on storage solutions indicates sustained interest in long-term sector investment.
According to public statements by Enel’s Chief Executive Officer, the potential partnership could be part of a broader regional deployment strategy. No final decision has been announced regarding the operational model or the projected capacity involved.
