Lombardy PD proposes mixed company for hydroelectric concessions, citing Trentino model

The Democratic Party in Lombardy is pushing for a new model to manage the region's significant hydroelectric resources. Pier Luigi Mottinelli, the party's representative for mountain affairs, advocates for a mixed public-private company structure, drawing inspiration from Trentino's successful Dolomiti Energia.

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From the water that descends from our mountains, rivers of funds can arrive destined for the territories that have suffered abandonment and economic crisis for years. The way is that of a mixed public-private company on the Trentino model of Dolomiti Energia.

Mottinelli argues that this approach would allow private companies' expertise to be leveraged while ensuring direct profit sharing for the region and its mountain communities. These profits, he suggests, could fund essential infrastructure, services, and environmental compensation, potentially revitalizing economically struggling areas.

Lombardy's hydroelectric sector is currently in a state of flux. National laws have granted regions authority over concessions, but the region has yet to fully implement a clear framework. Many of the 71 large hydroelectric concessions in Lombardy have expired or will expire by 2029. Current annual extensions, according to Mottinelli and regional councilor Jacopo Scandella, often involve underestimated fees relative to the plants' actual production capacity.

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This tool allows us to enhance the experience and competence of private companies active in the sector, while guaranteeing the Region and mountain territories direct participation in profits. Real profits to be reinvested in infrastructure, services, environmental compensation and that relaunch that could represent a real 're-immigration' in the Brescian valleys.

The potential financial benefits are substantial. The hydroelectric sector generates approximately 4 billion euros in annual revenue, with operating margins around 2 billion euros. A recent court ruling confirmed the region's right to collect over 205 million euros in back payments, highlighting the significant financial resources at stake. Mottinelli urges the regional government to actively exercise its authority over hydroelectric concessions, which it has held since 2019, to unlock these funds for public works and territorial security.

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The more the stalemate continues, the more investments in safety remain frozen.