Axpo discusses the future of energy at Swiss embassy in Rome

In June, Axpo took part at an event organised by the Swiss Embassy in Rome. The goal of the event was to explore the role of private players in the Italian energy sector as enablers for the energy transition, with a specific focus on gas, LNG and hydrogen.

Natural gas is playing an increasingly key role in the global energy transition. In its liquefied form (LNG) it has become a global commodity, enabling the transportation of natural gas across long distances and connecting markets worldwide. The event offered a timely opportunity to share insights and reinforce Axpo’s commitment to a balanced and secure energy transition.

The event, which was held at the Swiss Embassy in Rome, brought together key stakeholders in the energy sector for an exchange on the challenges and opportunities facing Europe’s energy transition. Axpo was proudly represented by three senior speakers who contributed through a keynote speech and two panel discussions.

Opening Keynote: Salvatore Pinto on Energy Projects and Initiatives

Following the opening remarks by the Swiss Ambassador in Italy Roberto Balzaretti, Salvatore Pinto, Chairman of Axpo Italia, opened the event with a keynote speech highlighting the company’s commitment to tackling the energy trilemma: Ensuring sustainability, security, and accessibility.   
 
Salvatore underlined the role of gas as being key to bridging the energy gap, whilst supporting the growth of renewables in the near future. He stressed that Axpo’s investments in renewables are strategic and long-term, reflecting a forward-looking vision for a resilient energy system.  
 
He also called attention to the importance of structured energy solutions such as Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), which provide price stability and make renewable projects financially feasible.  
 
In conclusion, Salvatore reminded the audience that the continuous availability of energy is not a given—it is something that must be earned every day, through vision, diversification, innovation, and streamlining of permitting processes. 

Panel I: Simone Rodolfi on the Role of LNG

The first panel discussion was about the role of LNG (Liquified Natural Gas), where Simone Rodolfi, Head of Origination and Structuring, gave valuable insights into the role of LNG in the current energy landscape.   
 
He described LNG as a vital transitional fuel and a pillar of energy security, especially in the face of global geopolitical shifts that impact demand and supply. Simone explained how LNG supply is becoming more diversified, resulting in a more complex but opportunity-rich market. However, this increased complexity comes with cost implications, as global volatility continues to influence prices for consumers and businesses alike.  
 
To mitigate these effects, Simone highlighted the importance of investing in infrastructure and promoting long-term contracts. He also introduced practical examples such as the Grean Pearl project, which serves growing sustainability demands through ship-to-ship and ship-to-truck LNG operations. 

Panel II: Guy Bühler on the Future of Green Gas

Guy Bühler, Head Gas Power Plants & Green Gases, took part in the second panel discussion, focusing on the future of green gases, particularly hydrogen. He acknowledged the waning hype around hydrogen but reaffirmed its strategic importance to achieve carbon neutrality and supporting the energy transition

Several challenges remain—most notably high costs and the lag in technological advancement, especially in electrolysis.

He drew a powerful comparison between fossil fuels and hydrogen, stating that while nature provides fossil fuels ready-made, hydrogen production is a fully human-driven process, and this inevitably comes at a cost. Guy believes that embracing this "humanisation" of energy production is crucial, even if it means accepting higher prices in a decarbonised future.

As underscored during the discussions, natural gas and LNG will continue to serve as critical components in the evolving energy mix. 

Axpo, with its expertise in gas markets, LNG transportation, storage and trading, and biogas innovation, is uniquely positioned to support customers during this transition. With around 25 to 30 LNG shipments annually into Europe, and initiatives like small-scale LNG and bio-LNG development, Axpo’s role extends well beyond supply—it shapes the strategic infrastructure for tomorrow’s energy landscape.