The event featured an in-depth analysis of the fundamental role of energy in the global economy and capitalism, with particular emphasis on the transition from fossil fuels to renewable sources. At the center of the discussions was the search for a new sustainable balance in an increasingly electricity-consuming world, at the intersection of technological innovation and urgent climate action.

The event was opened by Alessandro Sallusti, Director of Il Giornale, who noted that the world is moving toward a future in which true power and weaponry will be based on energy production. Paradoxically, while Italy lacks primary natural energy resources, it is home to two of the world’s leading companies specializing in transforming “dirty” energy into clean energy.

The first speaker was the Mayor of Rome and former Minister of Economy and Finance, Roberto Gualtieri. Emphasizing the importance of the energy transition for the future of cities and the country, Gualtieri stated that energy today is the key to any justification of strategic autonomy, noting that certain energy sources have an unsustainable impact on the planet and lead to environmentally unsustainable conditions. The Mayor also pointed out that buildings in Rome generate 55% of emissions, while cars account for 35%. For this reason, Rome has launched a climate and adaptation plan by investing in the energy efficiency of 1,500 schools and increasing solar energy production on the city’s rooftops. He stressed the importance of a comprehensive approach that includes innovative solutions such as energy communities, the integration of solar and geothermal energy, and the valorization of waste as an energy resource. New models are being tested, ranging from the electrification of public transport to the introduction of the first hydrogen buses, as well as closing the waste cycle by converting organic waste into biogas. “Rome wants to do its part to build a more sustainable and resilient future,” Gualtieri concluded.

The event then continued online with the participation of Italy’s Minister for the Environment and Energy Security, Gilberto Pichetto Fratin. He emphasized that energy consumption is currently very high and, according to analysts, demand is expected to nearly double, making it essential to stimulate the energy sector. The Minister noted that, in order to safeguard Italy’s prosperity, it is necessary to consider sources such as nuclear energy and to establish a legal framework that includes control and training standards. Fratin underlined that technology is advancing at a very rapid pace and that energy production from nuclear sources should be achievable by 2035. He also stated that nuclear energy is not as costly as often perceived, although a few years will be needed to confirm this definitively. The Minister added that, due to the geopolitical situation, gas prices are unlikely to decrease in 2025, while expressing hope for the swift restoration of peace.

A discussion took place between the Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Italy, Rashad Aslanov, and journalist Andrea Ruggieri, a former member of the Italian Chamber of Deputies (2018-2022) representing the “Forza Italia” party. The Ambassador highlighted the strong relations between Italy and Azerbaijan, noting that Azerbaijan currently supplies energy essential to Europe’s national security, thereby contributing to the energy security of Italy and other European countries. He stressed that Azerbaijan approaches cooperation in this field from a global perspective and that its energy projects are oriented toward Europe.

Describing Azerbaijan as a highly dynamic and fast-developing country, the Ambassador noted that cooperation is underway with Central Asian countries on projects that will reach Europe. He emphasized that development and the diversification of the economy and energy supply are top priorities on the agenda, adding that as economies grow, countries require more energy alongside increased exports, which has led Azerbaijan to expand its supply capacity.

“There is a strong global trend today toward renewable energy, and Azerbaijan is a leading country, as we have already completed the TAP project. We have ongoing projects involving many Italian companies. We have built the largest photovoltaic plant in the Caucasus and signed agreements for additional plants. We have also signed an agreement to construct an electricity transmission line that will carry power from the Caspian Sea to Hungary and onward to other European countries. Italian companies will also participate in this project,” the Ambassador stated in response to a question on renewable energy.

Video excerpts from the event are available at the following links:
https://www.ilgiornale.it/news/economia/azerbaigian-gran-fornitore-leuropa-2446825.html?utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social&utm_campaign=share_ilg
https://www.ilgiornale.it/news/economia-e-finanza/scommessa-sul-futuro-2446028.html

The event was also attended by Lorenzo Giussani, Director of Strategy and Development at A2A Group; Maria Rosaria Guarniere, Director of Engineering and Project Execution at Terna Group; Laura D’Angelo, Director of Business Strategy Development at Eniverse (Eni Group); Riccardo Toto, CEO of Renexia SpA; Vittorio Zane, President of Areti and CEO of Acea Group; and other industry representatives, who shared their companies’ experiences.