The challenges of Claudio Zito, new Enel Country Manager: 2010 production and increased acquisitions

The first such project, which could turn the Enel group from distributor and supplier of electricity into a producer is in the Aeolian sector, after it took over the Blue Line Bistrita project developer in December 2007 for €1.1 million, with the right to develop a wind farm project in the southeastern Dobrogea region, for some 200 MW. “Considering the time needed to develop and build various types of generating projects, the wind plants could be the first to begin producing electricity. We are not presently targeting a specific production capacity. Our projects are intended to ensure a solid energy production base in Romania, with a balanced asset portfolio and an integrated presence,” according to a declaration for Business Standard by Enel officials. The company is in the process of finalizing its efforts to obtain authorization for the Blue Line wind plants and intends to begin construction on the first Aeolian plant this year.

“We also recently concluded an accord for the supply of turbines with Gamesa Corporacion Tecnologica, and plan that this part of the development projects becomes operational as of 2010,” added the company’s officials. Enel continues to carefully watch for Aeolian acquisition opportunities, according to market sources.