Nov. 6 – Between 2003 and 2012, the economies of Latin American countries were characterized by strong growth: to ensure this process will continue, an important role is played by electricity supply, a key factor for sustainable development. Until recently, local citizens and businesses have relied on the availability of electricity at all times, at affordable prices and at environmentally sustainable conditions. “Italy’s commitment in this sector can be put to service in Latin America in the form of bilateral cooperation agreements,” said Mario Giro, Undersecretary for Foreign Affairs, on the occasion of the workshop “Electricity and network transmissions as a factor for sustainable development in Latin America,” organized by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in collaboration with the Istituto Italo – Latino Americano (IILA). “Sustainable development – continues Giro – is a good exercise in dialogue in view of the 4th Italian – Latin America conference, held in December, that will be a good moment to assess prospects for bilateral cooperation. Italy – follows with admiration the region’s growth; and Italian investments America are stable. Enel is the largest electricity producer, while other Italian companies have important roles in the sustainable development of ‘energy’.” Italy’s experience in Europe in terms of liberalization and development of network infrastructures and renewable energy generation can be a useful example and a fundamental support to growth in the region. “The adequate energy infrastructure – said Ambassador Giorgio Malfatti di Monte Tretto – is vital for South American integration.” Alongside traditional technologies, such as those for the exploitation of hydropower energy, other techniques are in constant development, such as geothermal, wind, solar and biomass resources. The combination of both should be able to meet the growing demand within sustainable growth standards, at low operational costs. In these sectors, Italy has a great tradition that has its roots in the history of the country and is reflected in the performance of some ‘national champions’ and numerous small and medium-sized enterprises, their skills can of use to their counterparts in Latin America.” The International Energy Agency estimated that in the next 25 years there will be a substantial increase in the electricity consumption, especially with regard to gas and renewable sources,” said Paolo Frankl, Head of the IEA renewable energy Division. “In the last decade – he added – the power sector has grown at 3.3 % per year, while renewable-energy use will grow considerably in Latin America.”
