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The European Union is undergoing structural transformations aimed at climate neutrality by 2050, security of supply, and industrial competitiveness. Within this framework, the energy transition involves more than just the spread of renewable sources; it also involves a profound reorganization of energy production, distribution, and consumption systems. ENEL, Italy’s leading energy company and one of Europe’s largest operators, positions itself as a player capable of integrating climate policies, technological innovation, and infrastructure investments, playing a key role in the processes promoted by EU institutions.
SPACE AS A NEW FRONTIER FOR ENERGY
In recent years, space has also become a strategic area for the energy sector. The increasing accessibility of satellite technologies and the reduction in launch costs have transformed satellites into central elements of a complex digital ecosystem. ENEL has incorporated these technologies into its strategy through the development of Earth observation systems in collaboration with the European Space Agency. These systems enable continuous monitoring of soil, vegetation, atmosphere, and water resources, enabling the detection of weak signals and progressive changes that are difficult to detect with traditional instruments. This advanced observation capability addresses the concrete operational needs of modern energy systems, such as forecasting water availability, production planning, and managing risks associated with extreme weather events. Thus, the use of space data directly contributes to the stability and predictability of the European energy system.
SATELLITE DATA, WATER, AND RENEWABLE ENERGY
One of the areas where satellite observation is particularly relevant is water resource management. Accurately estimating the amount of water contained in snow allows for more precise predictions of future availability for hydroelectric generation. Improving these forecasts reduces uncertainty, optimizes planning, and strengthens the overall reliability of the electricity system. At the same time, information from space improves the quality of weather forecasts, both short- and medium- to long-term. In a context characterized by a growing incidence of non-programmable renewable sources, this predictive capacity becomes essential for balancing supply and demand and mitigating the effects of climate change.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND INFRASTRUCTURE RESILIENCE
The integration of artificial intelligence represents another key step. Computer vision algorithms applied to satellite imagery allow for the automatic recognition of patterns and anomalies, supporting the monitoring of critical infrastructure such as dams, power plants, and electricity grids. This approach allows us to identify the most vulnerable areas, define intervention priorities, and improve network resilience, particularly in complex regions or those exposed to extreme events. Connectivity also benefits from space technologies. Low-orbit satellite constellations provide stable communications to emergency response teams, ensuring operational continuity and personnel safety, even in the absence of terrestrial coverage.
THE SOLARIS PROJECT AND ENERGY GENERATION FROM SPACE
In addition to the use of satellites for monitoring and management, ENEL is a partner in the European Space Agency’s SOLARIS project, which explores the possibility of producing solar energy directly in space. The idea is to place large photovoltaic power plants in geostationary orbit, where sunlight is available almost continuously. The energy produced would be transmitted to Earth via microwaves and converted back into electricity. Although photovoltaics have been used in space for decades, the innovative element lies in its industrial scale and the goal of complementing terrestrial renewables with a continuous source. The current phase of the project is dedicated to evaluating the technical and economic feasibility of the entire process, opening up a long-term perspective for the European energy system.
SMART GRID AND DIGITIZATION OF DISTRIBUTION
In parallel with space innovations, ENEL is committed to the transformation of electricity networks, a crucial element of the transition. The spread of distributed generation and prosumers has made the system more complex and bidirectional, requiring networks capable of reacting in real time. Through its e-distribuzione company, the Group manages one of the most extensive networks in Europe, characterized by millions of active points and constant growth in connections. The industrial strategy envisages significant investments in infrastructure development, increasing capacity to accommodate new renewable generation, and digitalization, with the adoption of smart grids, advanced control systems, and smart meters. This path is consistent with European guidelines, which recognize the electricity grid as a strategic technology and an essential sector for economic and social functions.
ENEL AS A SYSTEMIC PLAYER IN EUROPEAN INNOVATION
Taken together, ENEL’s initiatives outline a role that goes beyond that of a traditional energy operator. The company is positioned as a systemic player in major European processes, capable of connecting the green transition, digital innovation, space investments, and artificial intelligence. From this perspective, regulatory stability and the ability to innovate become essential conditions for energy to continue to be a driver of sustainable, resilient, and integrated development for the European Union.