In Europe, creating a single electricity market is a growing need. It will reduce costs, enhance the security of supplies, promote energy efficiency and support the development of renewable sources. Therefore, a greater commitment is urgently needed to modernise and expand energy infrastructure and to achieve cross-border network interconnection.
EU-27 common targets will only be achieved by creating networks that are innovative and smart. To this end, it will be necessary to develop smart grids, electricity networks that become “intelligent” by applying information and communication technologies.
In this context, electricity distributors play a critical role. As recently recalled by Enel Infrastructure and Network DirectorLivio Gallo, they must face essential challenges:
- ensuring high-quality and secure electricity services;
- promoting an efficient use of electricity;
- applying new technologies, like electric mobility;
- managing energy flows and integrating the increasing renewable generation;
- promoting and diffusing the active participation of users;
- creating flexible electricity infrastructure in view of future scenarios.
Enel has been facing these particularly engaging challenges since long, playing a key role at a global level by way of its accomplishments. Namely, the leadership it has gained in the field of electronic meters (which are a first and essential step towards the deployment of smart grids). And also the expertise it has acquired in the smart management of middle voltage networks, the efficiency of public lightning, electric mobility and home automation technologies.
