It is neither a superficial label nor a slogan. Open Power defines a profound change that we at Enel have decided to make in response to new challenges in the areas of energy, technology and society as a whole, relying on two main drivers: sustainability and innovation.
Technological progress and the changing behaviour of customers, who are increasingly aware and informed, have completely altered the business model in the energy industry. The traditional models are changing, as are companies’ roles and responsibilities. For us, sustainability is one of the pillars on which the paradigm of the present – and especially the future – of electricity rests.
A fundamental of this approach is the implementation, measurement and reporting of environmental sustainability, social and governance indicators along the entire value chain. The new challenges for sustainable development are the fight against poverty, the right to education, access to employment, gender equality, the universal availability of water resources, access to energy and climate change.
We know that global energy demand is destined to grow, against a background of increasingly limited natural resources, with variables imposed by environmental emergencies and the national and global regulations put in place to combat climate change. To respond adequately, our business must become increasingly open to a new way of thinking about energy: more accessible, more innovative and based on co-operation with the communities in which it operates.
Our primary commitment is certainly to ensure access to energy, but we are not limited to this sphere of action. We are working to support educational projects, encourage the development of clean energy, and promote employment and inclusive, sustainable and lasting economic growth.
To create shared value, we promote constant and constructive dialogue in the areas where we operate. This means acting proactively, combining the priorities of community and stakeholders with the needs of the business. This approach is leading us to adopt technical solutions based not only on environmental, engineering and economic factors, but also on social assessments, with the aim of limiting possible negative impacts and at the same time promoting positive spin-offs for the local economy.
Energy is a powerful developmental factor and, in Italy, Enel is committed to implementing large-scale projects that combine sustainability with innovation.