A2A debuts in the Calabrian water sector and acquires Novito Acque

A2A, through its subsidiary A2A Ciclo Idrico, has signed an agreement to acquire approximately 70% of the share capital of Novito Acque, a company operating in the management of wastewater treatment plants and sewerage networks in seven municipalities in the Locride area. With this transaction, the group consolidates its presence in a region it defines as "strategic," where it is already active in energy generation and the circular economy through waste management.

"Since the launch of our first business plan in 2021, we have invested €330 million and have already budgeted over €400 million by 2035 to support Calabria's industrial development in key sectors for the ecological transition. With A2A's entry into the management of Novito Acque, we are extending our commitment to the region's integrated water service, providing technical expertise, operational capacity, and a long-term vision," commented Renato Mazzoncini, CEO of A2A, who added: "By streamlining existing infrastructure and enabling innovative solutions, we are strengthening the shared path with our stakeholders to contribute to increasingly sustainable water management."

The agreement, according to a statement from the Lombardy-based multi-utility, "is designed to enhance the facilities and further optimize service management." The city currently serves over 50,000 residents: 35,000 permanent residents, plus a seasonal presence of approximately 15,000 during the summer. The infrastructure has already undergone technological revamping and will be further enhanced with investments aimed at improving plant efficiency and adopting innovative solutions for resource recovery. Photovoltaic panels have already been installed at the wastewater treatment plants in Pellegrina and San Leo (Reggio Calabria) to contribute to their energy needs.

"In line with A2A's circular approach, we also plan to improve sludge treatment and recycling processes through low-impact technologies," the statement continues. Specifically, advanced filtration technology will be installed for purification to limit odorous emissions, and a solar greenhouse sludge drying system will be adopted, significantly reducing its volume. The treated waste sludge will be partially reused to generate heat for some production processes.

The acquisition is part of the group's broader growth strategy in the region, "which confirms its willingness to further extend its commitment to improving the efficiency and development of the water sector in this area."