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Terna, Italy’s national electricity transmission operator, is rapidly accelerating its transformation into a technological leader in the European energy sector. From launching new innovation hubs to signing strategic partnerships with global tech players, the company is placing innovation, digitalization, and sustainability at the center of its long-term strategy.
A key milestone in this journey is the launch of the Terna Adriatic Innovation Zone, unveiled on June 23, 2025, in Ascoli Piceno, in the Marche region. This hub is designed to become a center of excellence for innovation and technology in support of the energy transition and the development of the Adriatic region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. “OpenHUB” and “OpenLAB” are the two main initiatives hosted at the site. The first is an open innovation program to accelerate the growth of local startups and SMEs, while the second will serve as a testing ground for advanced engineering solutions, especially in High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) technologies and maritime applications.
The innovation zone is part of a broader strategy launched by the company in 2024 under the Terna Innovation Zone program, which aims to strengthen collaboration with innovation ecosystems in Italy and abroad. The new center in Ascoli Piceno is the first of its kind in Italy, joining other Terna hubs in San Francisco and Tunis. As part of its commitment to the Marche region, Terna’s 2025–2034 Development Plan allocates €700 million in local investments, including the Adriatic Link, a 1,000 MW HVDC cable designed to improve grid reliability and renewable energy integration.
Just days before the launch of the Adriatic hub, Terna also signed a high-impact agreement with Microsoft to advance digitalization, security, and innovation across its operations. The partnership will leverage Microsoft’s AI and cloud solutions to support the energy-digital dual transition outlined in Terna’s Industrial Plan. According to CEO Giuseppina Di Foggia, “Microsoft’s services will enable the company to execute its Industrial Plan across four key areas: digitalization, innovation, security, and sustainability.”
Terna is already piloting Microsoft 365 Copilot with a select group of employees and exploring AI applications in infrastructure maintenance, fault detection, and procurement. The agreement also includes measures to enhance cyber threat management and strengthen the company’s hybrid infrastructure. Moreover, it expands support for startups through the Terna Innovation Zone Tunisia, a hub developed under the Mattei Plan to foster energy innovation and skills development in North Africa.
In its updated 2024–2028 Industrial Plan, Terna has committed €2.4 billion to digital transformation, a 20 percent increase compared to the previous cycle. This significant investment reflects the company's recognition of the critical role digital technologies will play in managing the growing complexity of the electricity system and ensuring a successful transition toward renewable energy and full decarbonization.
From regional innovation districts to global partnerships, Terna is clearly positioning itself as a key enabler of Europe’s green and digital future. Its integrated approach—combining engineering expertise, digital infrastructure, and community engagement—makes it a company to watch in the rapidly evolving energy landscape.
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Cover: Giuseppina Di Foggia