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Ascopiave

Investor Presentation Jun 18, 2024

4357_ip_2024-06-18_b2aa79b3-c4a2-4c13-9a36-3989d66f0864.pdf

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A s c o p i a v e G r o u p

Mediobanca 10th ITALIAN CEO Conference

th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

19th June 2024

Business overview
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….….
Pag. 3
Dividend
policy and Group strategic
guidelines ……………………………………………………………….
Pag. 11
Ascopiave gas distribution
business
…………………………………………………………………………………………
Pag. 14
Estenergy
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….….….
Pag. 18
Cogeide
………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………
Pag. 22
Renewable
energies ………………………………………………………………………………………….………………………………
Pag. 24
Sustainability
goals
………………………………………….…………………………………………………………………………………
Pag. 26
Strategy ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. Pag. 30
Annex: gas distribution: sector overview
……………………………………………………………………………
Pag. 50
Annex: the energy
transition ……………………………………………………………………………….…………………….
Pag. 59
Annexes: Ascopiave financial
data …………….…………………………………………………………………………….
Pag. 65
Disclaimer ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………. Pag. 100

Business overview

Group business activities ……………………………………………….……………………………………………………….…. Pag. 4
Ascopiave shareholders ……………………………………………….………………………………………………………….…. Pag. 6
Group structure as of 31st March
2024
………………….………….………………….….…………….…………
Pag. 7
Main financial data ……………………………………………….………………………………………………………….……….…. Pag. 8
Financial debt ……………………………………………….………………………………………………………………………….….…. Pag. 10

Ascopiave is a leading operator in the Italian natural gas distribution sector. The Group also holds valuable assets in other business activities: renewable energy production, power and energy retail, energy services and water management services.

CORE BUSINESSES

Gas distribution

Operation, maintenance and development of local pipelines, connecting the transport national pipelines to the end consumers.

Activity carried out by the companies on the basis of concessions awarded by municipalities. Regulation provided both by the local municipalities and by the Italian Regulatory Authority for Energy, Networks and Environment (ARERA).

The subsidiaries Asco Renewables and Asco EG operate in the renewable energy field, through 29 hydroelectric and wind power stations (84.1 MW).

OTHER BUSINESS ACTIVITIES

Gas and power retail

Supply of gas and power to the end customers (free market).

Activity carried out by associated companies (minority stakes): Estenergy (25%) / Hera Comm (3%).

Energy services

District heating and energy efficiency services.

Activity carried out by the controlled company Asco Renewables.

The subsidiary Cart Acqua is shareholders and technological partner of Cogeide, company active in the integrated urban water management services.

Ascopiave is listed on the STAR segment of Borsa Italiana's equity market. The company complies with strict requirements concerning transparency, disclosure, liquidity and corporate governance, in line with international standards.

Increased voting right in general shareholders meeting pursuant to Art. 127-quinquies, paragraph 1, of the TUF (i.e. the main italian law governing the financial sector): two votes for each share held for a 24-month uninterrupted period.

(*) Internal processing based on information received from Ascopiave S.p.A. pursuant to art. 120 of the Consolidated Financial Law.

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 6 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

Group structure as of 31st March 2024

CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET ACCORDING TO IFRS (*)

BALANCE
SHEET
31/12/2023 31/12/2022
Tangible
assets
156
475
,
138
432
,
Intangible
assets
766
353
,
759
743
,
in
associates
Investments
308
331
,
436
287
,
Other
fixed
assets
42
780
,
43
877
,
Net
working
capital
(30
432)
,
(95
866)
,
invested
capital
Net
held
for
sale
assets
138 15
790
,
TOTAL
CAPITAL
EMPLOYED
1
243
645
,
,
1
298
262
,
,
Shareholders
equity
854
282
,
886
405
,
financial
Net
position
389
363
,
411
857
,
Financial
leverage
0
46
0
46
INTANGIBLE
ASSETS
31/12/2023
Goodwill 61
727
,
under
Assets
concession
689
007
,
Other
intangible
assets
15
620
,
Intangible
assets
766
353
,
INVESTMENTS
IN
ASSOCIATES
31/12/2023
Estenergy 202
838
,
Hera
Comm
53
331
,
Other
participations
(**)
52
162
,
in
associates
Investments
308
331
,

Capital mainly invested in the gas distribution business, in the renewable energy business and in associates active in the power and gas retail business

Solid financial structure

(*) Thousands of Euros; (**) Other participations: Acantho (Euro 22.3 mln), Acinque (Euro 21.6 mln) and Cogeide (Euro 8.2 mln).

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 8 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT ACCORDING TO IFRS (*)

INCOME STATEMENT 2023 2022
Revenues 180,794 163,651
EBITDA 94,526 77,930
EBITDA margin (%) 52.3% 47.6%
EBIT 45,990 31,911
EBIT margin (%) 25.4% 19.5%
Net financial income (4,365) 6,061
Income taxes (5,005) (6,999)
Net income from
discontinued operations
56 1,466
Net income 36,677 32,440
FINANCIAL
INCOME
NET
2023
and
Cogeide
Estenergy
Group
3
566
,
Dividends 4
228
,
financial
charges
Net
(12
159)
,
financial
Net
income
(4
365)
,

Operating results referred mainly to the regulated gas distribution business and renewable energy business

(*) Thousands of Euros.

Financial debt

(*) 2023 2022 Chg Chg
%
financial
borrowings
Long
term
204
064
,
178
538
,
25
526
,
14
3%
Current
position
of
long
financial
borrowings
term
80
642
,
119
280
,
(38
638)
,
-32
4%
Long
bond
loans
term
86
347
,
94
033
,
(7
686)
,
-8
2%
Current
position
of
bond
loans
7
708
,
- 7
708
,
n.a.
Short
financial
borrowings
term
7
917
,
(12
912)
,
20
829
,
-161
3%
Total
financial
debt
386
678
,
378
939
,
7
739
,
2
0%
Fixed
borrowings
rate
221
994
,
290
164
,
(68
170)
,
-23
5%
Floating
borrowings
rate
164
684
,
88
775
,
75
909
,
85
5%

Short term credit lines available (31.12.2023): Euro 150 mln

FY 2023 average cost of debt: 2.57% (vs FY 2022 rate: 1.13%)

(*) Thousands of Euros.

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 10 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

Dividend policy and Group strategic guidelines

Dividend policy ……………………………………………….…………………………………………………………………………….…. Pag. 12
--- -- --------------------------------------------------------------------- --------- --

Dividend policy (1)

Dividend payment sustainable with high return to shareholders

Sustainability of the dividend policy:

  • stable cash flow
  • stable business profitability
  • well-balanced financial structure

Dividend yield at the top of the listed italian utility companies

DIVIDEND 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018 2017 2016 2015 2014
Dividend
(Thousand
of
Euro)
28
172
,
35
757
,
34
663
,
442
47
,
163
75
,
40
016
,
40
016
,
33
347
,
33
332
,
Group
Net
Income
(Thousand
of
Euro)
32
665
,
45
326
,
58
701
,
493
216
,
44
625
,
47
135
,
53
635
,
43
014
,
35
583
,
Payout
ratio
86% 79% 59% 10% 168% 85% 75% 78% 94%
Dividend
per share
(Euro)
0
1300
0
1650
0
1600
0
2133
0
3383
0
1800
0
1800
0
1500
0
1500
DIVIDEND 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006
Dividend
(Thousand
of
Euro)
26
666
,
24
484
,
0 22
557
,
20
349
,
19
442
,
19
890
,
19
833
,
Group
Net
Income
(Thousand
of
Euro)
38
678
,
27
865
,
6
266
,
31
174
,
25
288
,
18
452
,
21
764
,
16
381
,
Payout
ratio
69% 88% 0% 72% 80% 105% 91% 121%
Dividend
per share
(Euro)
0
1200
0
1100
0
0000
0
1000
0
0900
0
0850
0
0850
0
0850

TOTAL DIVIDENDS DISTRIBUTED FROM STOCK EXCHANGE LISTING TO DATE Euro 521.1 mln

2024-2027 expected dividend distribution

2024-2027 PROSPECTS

An attractive and sustainable dividend distribution is expected for the 2024-2027 period.

Dividend growing from 14.0 Eurocents per share in 2023 to 18.0 Eurocents per share in 2027 (+29%)

(*) Dividend approved by the Ascopiave shareholders' meeting on 18 April 2024;

(**) Dividend to be approved and distributed during 2028 with reference to the year 2027.

Ascopiave gas distribution business

Market positioning ……………………………………………….…………………………………………………………………………. Pag. 15
Stability of the economic results and low risk profile ………………………………………………. Pag. 17

The gas distribution is carried out by subsidiary companies controlled by Ascopiave

Ascopiave Gas Distribution Business 2023 key figures
No. of managed concessions 304
Length of the gas distribution network (km) 14,730
No. of Users (PDR) 874,376
Volume of gas distributed (scm/mln) 1,432
RAB (Euro/000) 780,141

Ascopiave Group current distribution activities

The operated networks are located in Northern Italy (73% of the gas end users in Veneto, 17% in Lombardy, 5% in Friuli Venezia Giulia and 5% in other regions)

Ascopiave Group has been among the protagonist of the consolidation of the sector Since 2000 Ascopiave has completed 13 company acquisitions

Currently 5 th largest national operator in the sector and regional leader in Veneto

5 Currently
% (*)
Network
% (*)
Users
Group
26
3%
70
636
,
31
4%
561
197
7
,
,
Italgas
25
9%
69
555
,
18
6%
484
898
4
,
,
2i
Rete
Gas
4
6%
12
441
,
7
3%
1
766
973
,
,
A2A
6
6%
17
749
,
5
9%
1
430
483
,
,
Hera
5
5%
14
614
,
3
7%
889
739
,
Ascopiave
3
1%
8
278
,
3
0%
727
503
,
Iren
2
3%
6
064
,
1
7%
404
016
,
Estra
4%
1
3
826
,
2%
1
278
214
,
Erogasmet
24
2%
64
972
,
27
1%
6
527
977
,
,
Others
100
0%
268
135
,
100
0%
24
071
000
,
,
Total

(*) 2022 data.

Gas distribution is a regulated business, characterised by a stable profitabilty and low risk profile

Economic results and investments 2015-2023

YEAR EBITDA
(Euro/mln)
EBITDA/user
(Euro)
Investments
(Euro/mln)
2023 75.9 87 61.6
2022 64.9 75 58.0
2021 70.2 90 50.3
2020 69.8 90 41.9
2019 48.3 82 31.4
2018 48.6 99 27.8
2017 47.8 102 22.5
2016 35.0 88 19.7
2015 35.8 90 20.7
  • Constancy of economic results (EBITDA/end user) and cash flows guaranteed by the stability of regulation
  • Increase in EBITDA supported by the growth in the customer base served over the years
  • Ascopiave achieves excellent profitability on operational management

Recovery of the capital invested at the expiry of concessions (compensation to be cashed from the newcoming operators in case of exit)

Estenergy

The strategic repositioning of Ascopiave finalized on December 2019 ………………. Pag. 19
→ Key figures
related
to Estenergy
Group ……………………………………………….………………………………
Pag. 20
→ Put option of Ascopiave on Estenergy
shares ……………………………………………….……………………
Pag. 21

On 19th December 2019 Ascopiave and Hera finalized a complex operation

  • The two parties established a partnership in the energy sales business through the company Estenergy. Estenergy acquired:
    • ✓ the shareholdings held by the Ascopiave Group in the companies active in the natural gas and electricity sale business (except for Amgas Blu)
    • ✓ the sales activities operated by the Hera Group in Triveneto
  • the purchase by Ascopiave from the Hera Group of a series of gas distribution concessions covering 188.000 users in Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia.

Primary strategic goals matched by Ascopiave:

  • reinforcing the gas distribution core business, consolidating the leadership position in the Veneto Region
  • giving greater value to the sales activities, through the partnership with a valid player in the market

2023 key figures related to the sales business run by Estenergy Group:

Gas sales 2023 Electricity sales
2023
Volume of gas sold (scm/mln) 736 Volume of electricity sold (GWh)
1,835
Number of customers 645,824 Number of customers
382,399
Income
statement (*)
2023
Revenues 1,123.3
EBITDA 69.4
EBIT 24.6 75%
25%
Net income 11.6
Net income consolidated by Ascopiave 3.7 Estenergy
is
consolidated
by the Ascopiave
(pro-rata) Group with the net equity
method.
Consolidated
results
reported
in Ascopiave
financial
statements
takes into
account the

pro-rata of the capital share held in the company and pertaining consolidation rules.

(*) Million of Euros; data are considered at 100%.

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 20 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

Put Option of Ascopiave on Estenergy shares

Put option of Ascopiave exercisable:

  • in all or in part, by the latter on its entire stake in Estenergy, within 7 years from the closing of the transaction
  • at a price (strike price) that will be the highest of:
      1. Fair Market Value, calculated on the basis of an evaluation method agreed between the parties
      1. Purchase price at the entry, plus an annual return equal to 4%, minus all the distributed dividends from the closing date until the date of the exercise
      1. Purchase price at entry

If exercised, the put option guarantees a minimum rate of return on the initial investment of Ascopiave in Estenergy (Euro 395.9 mln)(*)(**) equal to 4%

In December 2022, Ascopiave partially exercised its put on its stake in Estenergy, transferring an 8% share of the company's capital to the Hera Group, collecting Euro 79.2 mln

In November 2023, Ascopiave partially exercised its put on its stake in Estenergy, transferring a 15% share of the company's capital to the Hera Group, collecting Euro 137.5 mln

(*) Investment of Ascopiave in Estenergy for the initial 48% stake held in the company; (**) In 2020 Ascopiave subscribed an EstEnergy capital increase for 32.5m€ to service the tax relief of the higher value of the equity investments it acquired compared to the net book value. The benefits for Ascopiave will be represented by higher dividends in the years 2023- 2032. If the put option is exercised, the benefits not yet obtained will be recognized as a supplement to the price.

Cogeide

December 2020 - Entry into the water management service through the acquisition of Cart Acqua, investor and technological partner of Cogeide, manager of the integrated water service in 15 municipalities in the Province of Bergamo

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 23 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

Renewable energies

Renewable energies ……………………………………………….………………………………………….…………………………… Pag. 25
--- ----------- ---------------------------------------------------------- --------- --

  • December 2021 Entry into the field of renewable energy production through the acquisition from EVA Group of 6 hydroelectric plants located in Lombardy and Piedmont.
  • January 2022 Acquisition of the 79.74% stake in Eusebio Energia S.r.l. (now Asco EG S.p.A.), owner of a portfolio of 21 hydroelectric plants in Lombardy and Veneto and 1 wind farm in Campania.
  • January 2022 Establishment of a partnership with the Renco Group to develop new power generation plants from renewable sources through the acquisition of the 60% stake in Salinella Eolico S.r.l.. At the end of 2023, Ascopiave acquired the entire capital of the company.

January 2024 - Entry in operation of the wind farm in Calabria built by Salinella Eolico S.r.l with a nominal capacity of 21.6 MW.

Renewable
energies key figures
2023
Number of plants in operation 28
Installed capacity (MW) (*) 62.5
Energy produced (GWh)
of which about 22 GWh incentivized
151
The
historical
average
of
production
is
around
which
approx.
37
incentivized
168
GWh
of
EBITDA (Euro/mln) 11.2

(*) Excluding the wind plant located in Calabria (21.6 MW), come into operation in January 2024.

Sustainability goals

Sustainability of Ascopiave ……………………………………………….…………….…………………………………………. Pag. 27
Environmental sustainability ………………………………………………………………………………………………….…. Pag. 28
Social sustainability ……………………………………………….…………………………………………………………….…….…. Pag. 29

vnE

ri

no

mental – S

o

cial - Governance

Ascopiave Group initiatives aim to combine sustainability and industrial growth, focusing on the optimisation of ESG objectives with a view to creating value for all stakeholders

Environmental

The Ascopiave Group's commitment to fighting climate change is translated into concrete actions aimed at reducing CO2 emissions, producing clean energy and saving energy. Further attention is paid to initiatives to reduce the consumption of plastics at company sites.

Social

Ascopiave supports the improvement of social quality standards through initiatives and policies that promote social values in compliance with the principles of non-discrimination and equal opportunities within its organisation and in favour of local communities, for example through training and inclusion programmes aimed at employees.

Governance

Ascopiave, as a listed company, is aligned with industry best practices in the composition of its Board of Directors and Board of Statutory Auditors, complying, for example, with regulations on gender equality. Documents such as the Articles of Association, Code of Ethics, Remuneration Policy, and Management and Coordination Guidelines provide for sustainable success as a key principle.

Ascopiave Group has always placed great emphasis and commitment on environmental issues, with the aim of minimizing the impact of its activities

Energy from renewable sources: Ascopiave has entered the renewable generation business, investing in hydroelectric (27 plants for an installed capacity of 48.5 MW) and wind power (2 plants for an installed capacity of 35.6 MW). At the company headquarters there is a 380 kW photovoltaic plant and a geothermal plant that guarantee a significant reduction in pollution and consumption.

CO2 emission reduction: we have long been implementing the best technologies for constant consumption monitoring and implementing sustainable behaviors.

TEE management: through its subsidiary Asco Renewables (ESCo certified), Ascopiave manages the procurement of the Group's energy efficiency certificates in the most effective way.

Canteen Service: canteen service availability with focus on providing sustainable menus with the goal of reducing water use related to food production and consumption and CO2 emissions. Ascopiave contributes to reducing food waste and spreading the culture of food value, proper nutrition, favoring supply chains with low environmental impact, supporting health and environment.

Extent of corporate green space: the main office has multiple green spaces totaling about 28,000 square meters equipped with an intelligent irrigation system that is not fed by the water service network. The green space/employee ratio is 150 sq. m.

Ascopiave Group promotes the involvement of its stakeholders in a context of mutual trust and collaboration to achieve its economic and social sustainability objectives

Supply chain: the Group gives preference to suppliers who hold certifications in environmental, quality and health & safety areas, and who operate in line with the Group's sustainability choices. The prevailing presence of local suppliers contributes to maintaining the level of employment in the territory.

Sustainability Report: during 2023, the Company continued the approach of communicating its social and environmental performance through the Non-Financial Statement, in addition to the Sustainability Report responding to the strategic goal of developing and nurturing relationships with the Stakeholder community over time.

Training: the Group promotes the professional growth of its employees. In order to increase employees' skills, continuous training and development activities are carried out. In 2023, the average training hours per employee amounted to 28.7.

Inclusiveness: the Group promotes the principles of inclusion, non-discrimination and equal opportunities, both in personnel selection and career development, as set out in the Code of Ethics and the personnel selection policy.

Work/life balance: the Group pays particular attention to the work/life balance of its workers: in particular, through a 2nd level contractual agreement, the company provides for flexibility when entering and leaving the working day.

Parenthood: for workers, the Group allows them to obtain part time and/or a more conciliatory work schedule until their child reaches the age of 14.

Strategy

Strategy ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……… Pag. 31
Ascopiave's
growth strategy in the gas distribution market ………………………………………
Pag. 33
Efficiency and innovation initiatives …………………………………………………………………………………… Pag. 35
Gas distribution investment plan …………………………………………….…………………………………………… Pag. 37
Renewable energy …………………………………………….…………………………………………………………………………… Pag. 39
Diversification ……………………………………………….…………………………………………………………………………………… Pag. 41
Sustainability commitments ………………………………………………………………………….…………………………… Pag. 43
Economic and financial goals …………………………………………………………………………………………….……… Pag. 44
2024-2027 Group planned investments (Scenario A) …………………………………………………… Pag. 45
2024-2027 Group planned investments (Scenario B) …………………………………………………… Pag. 46
Financial projections to 2027 …………………………………………………………………………………………….……… Pag. 47

Strategy (1)

Ascopiave Group's strategy is based on sustainable growth, developing resources and skills in order to seize the opportunities generated by new market trends

The 2024-2027 strategic plan envisages a growth path that will allow to increase company profitability, maintaining a balanced financial structure and a stable and profitable dividend distribution

GROWTH (GAS DISTRIBUTION)

Ascopiaves' current positioning and expertise in the gas distribution provide a solid foundation to support the growth of the scope of activities under management in a sector undergoing consolidation

  • Awarding of a significant number of ATEM tenders
  • M&A of small to medium-sized companies operating in the gas distribution sector
  • Establishment of partnerships aimed at joint participation in tenders

GROWTH (RENEWABLE ENERGY)

Further implementation of renewable energy expertise is the basis for supporting further growth of managed business in a rapidly developing sector

  • Development of greenfield plants
  • M&A of small to medium-sized companies operating in the renewable energy sector
  • Establishment of partnerships aimed at the development of specific plants
  • Diversification of the type of renewable energy sources

STRATEGIC PILLARS

Strategy (2)

DIVERSIFICATION

As part of the energy transition and business diversification process, Ascopiave Group aims, through a growth based on the enhancement of possessed skills, to maximize the value generated for stakeholders

  • Green hydrogen
  • Biomethane
  • Water services
  • Energy efficiency
  • Upsides (other network services, synthetic gas)

INNOVATION

Innnovation management is a crucial activity for Ascopiave and targets both short and medium-long term objectives

  • Operating costs optimization
  • Interventions encouraged by current regulations
  • Competitive potential improvement in ATEM competitions
  • Offer improvement in innovation
  • Technological adaptation of networks and infrastructures as a contribution to the competitiveness of the «gas system» vs alternative energy carriers

EFFICIENCY

Improving operational and economic efficiency is at the heart of Ascopiave's management policies, which aims to follow up on the excellent results achieved over the past few years

Ascopiave's growth strategy in the gas distribution market (1)

  • Gas distribution concession must be awarded through public tenders.
  • The future tenders must be called to assign concessions for the management of the service in wide geographical areas, grouping neighbouring municipalities (ATEM).
  • Municipalities belonging to a single ATEM must appoint a local entity to act as unique contracting authority.

Ascopiave's positioning inside the ATEMs (*)

ATEM Ascopiave
Group
(*)
gas
users
% Ascopiave
Group
market
share
ATEM
Treviso
2
148
705
,
17% 93%
Treviso
1
79
562
,
9% 58%
Padova
1
168
658
,
19% 78%
3
Vicenza
88
129
,
10% 86%
Rovigo 35
528
,
4% 36%
Udine
3
34
012
,
4% 56%
Bergamo
1
31
234
,
4% 41%
Bergamo
5
30
934
,
3% 32%
Vicenza
4
29
512
,
3% 45%
2
Venezia
69
555
,
8% 34%
Other
ATEM
173
910
,
20% n.a.
Total 889
739
,
100%
  • Ascopiave is currently the main operator in 5 ATEM with more than 50% market share in terms of end users served. The current end users in these ATEM amount to over 60% of the total end users served by the Group
  • Ascopiave has also a significant market share in other ATEM located in Veneto, Lombardy and Friuli Venezia Giulia

(*) 2022 data. Ascopiave processing on MISE data.

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 33 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

Ascopiave has identified some tenders of interest, defining the different levels of priority with the aim of establishing a portfolio of territorially contiguous concessions.

The Group is also evaluating potential partnerships with other operators, in order to strengthen its position in some geographical areas.

The definition and implementation of the strategy depends on the timing of publication of the tender notices and any delays in the deadlines. This implies the need to establish an order of strategic priority and a continuous updating of decisions regarding participation in future tenders

After the assignment of the new ATEM concessions, the geographical areas served by Ascopiave are expected to change. The larger customer base and the increased territorial concentration of the operated plants will allow economies of scale and cost optimisation.

Program to increase operational and economic efficiency through the digitization of networks and processes. 2023-27 planned investments: Euro 5.8 mln (*)

SMART METER INSTALLATION

  • Ascopiave Group was one of the first companies to experiment with the installation of intelligent mass market meters and aims to achieve 100% of smart meters installed throughout its networks @ 2024
  • Internalization of installation activities is planned, in compliance with the objectives set by the Authority and with a view to planning these interventions in the most appropriate way
  • The identification of the right mix between Radio Frequency and P2P meters, and scale economies generated by the coverage of large areas of territory, will allow a significant operating cost optimization

DIGITISATION OF COMPANY PROCESSES

  • The Group plans for process digitization interventions, such as the evolution of cartographic systems, the efficiency of the Work Force Management system, virtual and augmented reality projects and Robotic Process Automation solutions
  • This digitization will allow the development of the execution of activities, achieving greater efficiency and creating new opportunities for using the data and information collected

NETWORK DIGITISATION

  • The Group aims to install sensors capable of detecting, recording, transmitting and executing commands by creating a digital twin of the physical infrastructure in order to:
    • o optimize network monitoring in terms of pressure and odorization
    • o acquire data in real time and simulate plant conditions
    • o adapt the network for the introduction of biomethane and in the future of other "green" gases

(*) Excluding investments for the replacement of smart meters.

Organic program of innovative interventions aimed at the evolution of the infrastructure and improving its safety and functional efficiency. 2023-27 planned investments: Euro 9.6 mln

REMI energy efficiency

Optimisation of the preheating system with high-efficiency cogeneration, heat pumps, photovoltaics and solar thermal intended to reduce the energy consumption of REMI substations

REMI energy recovery

Implementation of turbo expansion combined with high efficiency cogeneration (CAR)

Expected benefits:

  • Significant reduction in operating costs
  • Contribution to TEE obligations
  • Reduction in CO2 emissions

Two-way distribution system

Bi-directional REMI substations to ensure capacity and continuity for the injection of "green" gases into the distribution network, particularly biomethane for which several request for connection have recently been received on the currently operated network

Expected benefits:

  • Adapting the grid for the future feed-in of "green" gases
  • Lower connection and operating costs for "green" gases producers

Most of the planned investments are in gas distribution, with significant interventions on current perimeter and possible additional gains in case of ATEM tender award

2024-27 planned investments: Euro 561 mln Expected EBITDA @ 2027: Euro 126 mln

(*)

(*) of which Euro 21 mln for the awarding of the ATEM tenders

Enterprise Value (to be carried out

Technical investments companies

between 2024 and 2027)

acquired post 2023

Investment in gas distribution current perimeter cumulated @ 2027

Network and facilities maintenance

Network and facilities development

infrastructure

Other investments

innovation

Measurement equipment and

Digitalization, efficiency and

77

77

  • Network and facilities maintenance 12 Network and facilities 19
  • 12 Network and facilities maintenance ~284 km network, makeover of ~14.5k UDS1 and ~180 FRG2 and cabins interventions 12 Network and facilities 12 Network and facilities maintenance12 Network and facilities maintenance maintenance Measurement equipment and
    • Measurement equipment and infrastructure Network and facilities development ~73 km of new pipelines and ~2.3k new UDS1 maintenance Measurement equipment and Measurement infrastructure Measurement equipment and infrastructure infrastructure
    • Digitalization, efficiency and innovation Measurement equipment and infrastructure infrastructure Digitalization, efficiency and Digitalization, efficiency andinnovationDigitalization, efficiency and innovation Digitalization, efficiency and innovation 70 70

Network and facilities installation of ~288k meters innovation Network and facilities Network and facilities Network and facilities development

46 188

46 188

46 188

15

15

15

15

15

41

41

41

41

41

  • development Digitalization, efficiency and innovation Network and facilities developmentOther 46 188 development Other investments
  • Other investments Other investments including process digitization 46 188 development Other investments Other investments

Investment in gas distribution M&A cumulated @ 2027

  • for Enterprise Value (*) to be carried out between 2024 and 2027: gas users 51k Enterprise Value (already carried out in 2022) out in 2022)
  • for Enterprise Value (*) of new companies to be carried out between 2024 and 2027 Enterprise Value (to be carried out between 2023 and 2026) Enterprise Value (to be carried out between 2023 and 2026)

1) User Derivation Systems; 2) Final Reduction Groups acquired post 2022

technical investments companies

acquired post 2022

technical investments companies

Enterprise Value (already carried

(*) Enterprise Value of the acquired assets = Price for the equity + Net Financial Position

Renewable energy (1)

The Group aims to expand the portfolio of RES generation power plants both through M&A transactions and the development of new greenfield plants

Renewable energy (2)

36

36

58

58

4

4

43

43

Wind Solar

Investment in green field cumulated @ 2027

Investments in authorized

Investments in greenfield

greenfield plants

plants

36

114 73 Development of greenfield photovoltaic plants already authorized or at an advanced authorization stage Development of new photovoltaic systems at the permit application stage authorized Development of new photovoltaic systems at the 43

37.9 MW capacity; planned commissioning in 2025 and 2026 Development of new wind permit application stage

Development of new wind farm power plants in the permit application stage Development of new wind

operation

operation

Maintenance of plants in

36.0 MW capacity; expected start of operation in 2028, after the plan horizon Maintenance of plants in power plants in the permit application stage 58

Investment in renewable energy M&A cumulated @ 2027

  • for Enterprise Value (*) for the acquisition of wind plants 35.0 MW capacity for EV (already made in 2022) Development of new photovoltaic systems at the permit application stage
  • for Enterprise Value (*) for the acquisition of photovoltaic plants 40.0 MW capacity for EV (to be carried out between 2023 and 2026) Development of new wind power plants in the permit application stage

Maintenance of plants in

operation

(*) Enterprise Value of the acquired assets = Price for the equity + Net Financial Position

Diversification (1)

The diversification allows Ascopiave to maximise the value generated by the Group, exploiting and enhancing the internal competences.

STRATEGIC DRIVERS FOR DIVERSIFICATION

Green hydrogen

  • Implementation of integrated project from production to final distribution of green hydrogen
  • Arrangements with end users for collection
  • Potential testing of the use of hydrogen in the gas grid

Biomethane

GREEN GASES GREEN GASES

  • Collaboration in the form of "revenue sharing" and/or JVs with agricultural companies and/or food industries for the valorization of processing waste
  • Focus on updgrading and enhancement of existing biogas plants (in Veneto > 100 MW installed biogas-powered electrical capacity)
  • Potential leverage on public grants for investment development

H2

▪ Focus on target territories

Water management services

  • Collaboration with industry players/integrated water service operators to provide specialized services, software sharing to push digitalization of the industry
  • Attention to possible investment opportunities (tenders for integrated water service management)

Energy efficiency

  • Focus on Public Administration and Industry which are segments characterized by lower capillarity than household customers and higher investment size
  • Long-term contracts (Energy Performance Contract, project financing) in order to stabilize the flows generated by investments

Staff training: target of 29 hours/year of training per employee through enrichment of e-learning training offerings available to Group employees, and through further implementation of a dedicated training platform.

Average age: the Group intends to maintain the current average age of about 48 years, ensuring uniformity in the distribution of the different age groups of employees.

Gender Equality Certification: activities aimed at obtaining gender equality certification are ongoing.

Welfare: further expansion of the services available on the platform, ranging from education and instruction, social security and health benefits, to the purchase of other goods, while maintaining the current scope of involvement at 100% of employees.

Worker safety: the Group considers the protection of workers to be of primary importance, setting itself the goal of maintaining high levels of safety, promoting the integration of safety in all company activities and focusing on continuous staff training. Therefore, by 2025, the Group is committed to certifying all companies with operating personnel to the Occupational Health and Safety Management System (ISO 45001) (by the end of

electric/hybrid car fleet target is 23.5% (9.5% at 2023). Waste: the Group is committed to maintaining the standards already achieved of sending more than 99% of

Sustainable vehicles: corporate fleet renewal according to the highest industry standards. By 2027, the

Renewable power: photovoltaic power installed at the company's headquarters that will save, in terms of tons of CO2 avoided from 2023 to 2027, more than 1.3 ktons.

Gas distribution asset renewal: replacement of ageing networks to reduce fugitive emissions of natural gas. Digitisation and renovation of the network to facilitate the introduction of renewable gases (biomethane, hydrogen-methane blending, etc.).

Renewal of domestic meter fleet: selection of meters capable of receiving the new gas mixtures and made of recyclable material. Gradual replacement of meters with GPRS communication technology in favor of NB-IOT will allow reduction in quantity of spent batteries for disposal.

Reduction of CO2 and CH4 emissions: through the implementation of energy efficiency measures for the preheating cycle in REMI substations and the adoption of innovative methods to search for CH4 leakage in networks.

2023, 96% of Group personnel will already be certified).

special waste for recovery.

Economic and financial goals

Uncertainty about the start of ATEM tenders

The uncertainty about the timing of tenders and subsequent award of concessions suggested the development of a scenario analysis based on various hypotheses:

SCENARIO A increase in the perimeter of activities managed in gas distribution
sector only through M&A and organic growth as by the end of the plan
period no ATEM tender is able to complete its award process
SCENARIO B in addition to the growth expected in scenario A, the launch and
award of 4 ATEM tenders in the year 2027 is expected and,
consequently, a significant increase in networks and served customers

Pursuit of rational goals in terms of efficiency and investments

  • The projections reflect the goals reasonably achievable by the Group
  • Operating and investment costs incorporate inflation dynamics average annual inflation over the entire plan horizon: 2.36% (2024: 3.00% / 2025-2027: 2.15%) - and economic-management efficiency targets

Implementation of M&A initiatives and diversification into other activities

Achievement of reasonable growth targets through M&A and investment initiatives in the renewable energy sector and diversified businesses

Planned investments, aimed both at the maintenance and development of the existing network and at the expansion of activities on new synergistic businesses

Cumulative investments @ 2027 (Scenario A)

€ 617 mln

  • Investments for the maintenance and development of the gas distribution infrustructures related to the current perimeter
  • Investment in acquisition of companies active in gas distribution and subsequent development and maintenance of the acquired networks
  • Efficiency & innovation
  • Metering equipment and infrastructure
  • Investments in renewable energy related to maintenance of plants in operation, development of new wind and photovoltaic plants and M&A transactions on companies active in renewable energy
  • Investment in diversification directed to new business initiatives (green hydrogen, biomethane, energy efficiency and water service)
  • Centralized investments
Group investments
2024-2027 (*)
Scenario
A
%
Gas distribution current assets 258 42%
M&A gas distribution 87 14%
Gas distribution 346 56%
Renewable
energy
221 36%
Diversification 48 8%
Corporate 3 1%
Total investments 617 100%
Net equity divestments (**) -294
Total net investments 323

The plan also includes funding investments by divesting the stakes held in EstEnergy and Hera Comm through the full exercise by 2027 of put options, similarly for both scenarios (A and B).

(*) Data in Euro/mln; (**) Estenergy and Hera Comm.

Planned investments, aimed both at the maintenance and development of the existing network and at the expansion of activities on new synergistic businesses

Cumulative investments @ 2027 (Scenario B)

€ 832 mln

Additional investment envisaged in case ATEM tenders are awared (payment of residual value of the plants to outgoing operators (Euro 199 mln) and investments to be executed under new concessions (Euro 16 mln))

Group investments
2024-2027 (*)
Scenario
B
%
Total investments scenario A 617 74%
Gas distribution -
tenders
215 26%
Total investments 832 100%
Net equity divestments (**) -294
Total net investments 538

(*) Data in Euro/mln; (**) Estenergy and Hera Comm.

In both scenario the economic results are expected to show a growing trend. Over the plan period, there is growth in net invested capital and optimization of the mix of financing sources

SCENARIO A SCENARIO B
(Euro/mln) 2022A 2023A 2027E cagr
%
2027E cagr
%
EBITDA 78 95 139 +10% 160 +14%
EBIT 32 46 69 +11% 79 +14%
Net financial income (*) 6 -4 -9 +21% -15 +35%
Net income 32 37 42 +3% 45 +5%
Net invested capital 1,298 1,244 1,348 +2% 1,547 +6%
Net equity 886 854 914 +2% 917 +2%
Net financial position 412 389 435 +3% 630 +13%
Financial leverage 0.46 0.46 0.48 +1% 0.69 +11%

(*) Income from equity investments net of financial charges on debt.

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 47 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

Growth prospects, both by internal and external lines, will result in further consolidation of the Group in the gas distribution sector and an increase in the renewable energies sector

Renewable energy production

(*) Including the wind plant located in Calabria (21.6 MW), come into operation in January 2024.

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 48 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 49 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

Gas distribution: sector overview

Gas distribution: legal framework ………………………………………………………………………………….…… Pag. 51
Gas distribution: sector key figures ……………………………………………………………………………….…… Pag. 52
Public tenders for the assigning of concessions ……………………………………………………………… Pag. 53
Regulation of the call of tenders …………………………………………………………………………………….……… Pag. 54
Compensation to be paid to the outgoing distributor …………………………………………………. Pag. 55
Tariff regulation ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……… Pag. 56

Gas distribution: legal framework

  • Gas distribution is currently a local monopolistic activity managed under concessions granted by municipalities.
  • Italian gas distribution sector was liberalized in 2000 according to the European Union Rules
  • The law established a mechanism of competition for the market: concession must be awarded only through public tenders.
  • The distributor is responsible for the operation, the development and the maintenance of the distribution network (operational expenses and investments), according to the concessional agreement signed between the operator and the municipality
  • The Italian Regulatory Authority for Energy, Networks and Environment (ARERA)
    • ✓ sets the tariffs to be applied to cover the cost of capital and for the operations of the service
    • ✓ provides rules regarding the minimum standard service levels.
  • The distributor gives access to any requiring gas sales company that has the right to use the network to supply gas to its customers (third party access).

Gas distribution: sector key figures

Gas distribution
key
figures
(*)
2022
No. of operators in Italy 186
Municipalities served 7,314
Volumes of gas distributed (bln/scm) 28.3
No. of users served (mln) 21.9
Length of the gas distribution network (km) 269,249
Regulatory asset base (RAB) (Euro/bln) (**) 19

Since 2000 gas distribution operators have been reduced to less than a third.

Currently gas distribution sector is strongly concentrated:

  • about 55% of RAB (**) is held by Italgas and F2i, the only operators with a national rank
  • about 30% of RAB (**) is held by 15 medium size operators (RAB > Euro 100 mln), with a regional relevance
  • about 15% of RAB (**) is held by small size operators

(*) ARERA data; (**) Ascopiave estimate.

  • In order to improve the economic efficiency of the sector, since 2007 the legislation has established that the tenders must be called to assign concessions for the management of the service in wide geographical areas, grouping neighbouring municipalities (ATEM).
  • The national government constituted 177 ATEM nationwide.
  • Municipalities belonging to a single ATEM must appoint a local entity to act as contracting authority for the ATEM.
  • The law established the deadline by which each ATEM contracting authority must call the tenders.
  • In 2011 the national government issued some decrees establishing the general contents of the call for tenders, that must be fulfilled on the base of the local needs for investments to be defined by the local contracting authority. The standardization was aimed at encouraging competition and assuring transparency and effectiveness in the tender process.

The current rules governing the incoming tender processes will probably cause a further restructuring of the distribution sector.

A significant reduction in the number of operators is expected, as the participation to the public tenders requires from the potential competitors strong financial capability and important economic, organizational and technical skills.

Tenders process is currently slowed down by procedural difficulties. All the contracting stations failed in publishing the call for tenders respecting the deadlines provided by the law.

Standards to evaluate economic and technical offers

  • A - Economic offer (maximum score: 28)
  • Discount on gas distribution tariffs
  • Discount on prices for specific services provided by the distributor to end users
  • Fee to be paid to municipalities awarding the concession (cap on the fee level: 10% of the capital cost components of VRT (Total Revenues Constraint) = 10% x ( CI x rd + AMM ))
  • Obligation to extend the distribution network (meters of pipes per end user that imply the obligation to connect new potential end-users)
  • Investments to improve energy efficiency
  • B - Offer concerning safety and service quality (maximum score: 27)
  • Network inspections in order to prevent gas leaks (percentage of gas network annually checked)
  • Performance of the emergency service and of the gas odorization service
  • Improving the level of other quality standards set by the Authority

C - Offer concerning the development and the maintenance of the network (maximum score: 45)

  • Appropriateness of the network operation analysis
  • Investment plan for the extension and the increase of the capacity of the distribution network; the evaluation concerns: the tangible benefits expected by the investment proposed, the accuracy of the technical projects as well as the quantities of new pipes to be made
  • Investment plan for the maintenance
  • Technological innovation

In the event that the public tender should not be awarded to Ascopiave, the winner must pay to the Group, as the current owner of the networks, a compensation:

  • (a) the compensation must be calculated in accordance with the terms of the agreement implementing the concession or direct award (as the case may be), provided that the agreement was signed before 11th February 2012
  • (b) or, if this is not provided for, the compensation must be calculated in accordance with the Guidelines set by the Ministry of Economic Development (Decree 22nd May 2014)
  • (c) contributions paid by private users in the past for the construction of part of the network must be deducted (valuation of these are in accordance with the tariff regulation) (*)
  • (d) the Energy National Authority (i.e. ARERA) must verify whether the compensation has been evaluated in accordance with the law
  • (e) the organizer of the tender bid must take into account the observations issued by the ARERA.

(*) In the evaluation of RAB contributions paid by private users are currently deducted.

Tariff regulation 2020-2025

On 27th December 2019 ARERA issued the Resolution n. 570/2019/R/gas, approving the new tariff regulation that will be in force during the period 2020-2025 (fifth regulatory period).

Allowed opex

X-factor aimed at reabsorbing the extra efficiency of the last regulatory period.

Unit allowed opex (*) 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 chg 23-19 chg % 23-19
Total CO / end user 48.0 43.1 42.0 40.5 40.8 -7.2 -15.0%

(*) Ascopiave estimate. Average unit opex allowed referred to Ascopiave Group (pro-forma)

Real pre-tax rate of return on RAB (WACC)

With the Res. n. 614/2021/R/com, modified and integrated with the Res. n. 654/2022/R/com, ARERA has established the criteria for determining and updating the remuneration rate of the capital invested for infrastructure services in the electricity and gas sectors for the period 2022-2027.

WACC 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024
WACC - distribution 6.3% 6.3% 6.3% 5.6% 5.6% 6.5%
WACC - metering 6.8% 6.3% 6.3% 5.6% 5.6% 6.5%

Tariff regulation for the incoming ATEM concessions

Difference between Compensation and RAB

At the starting date of the new concession:

  • if the winner of the public tender is the current incumbent operator, the new RAB is equal to the previous one;
  • if the winner of the public tender is a newcomer, the new RAB is equal to the compensation paid by the newcomer to the outgoing operator.

Compensation at the end date of the ATEM concession

The compensation is calculated as the sum of (a) the value of the stock of capital existing at the start date of the concession, that is equal to the initial compensation properly updated to take into account the depreciation occurred during the concessional period, and (b) the value of the investments made during the concessional period, calculated as the average between the effective costs of the assets and the regulatory value of the assets.

Regulatory evolution

With the consultation document 615/2021/R/com, ARERA has proposed a gradual introduction of a tariff regulation for Expence and Service Objectives (ROSS), oriented to the total efficiency of the service (from 2026):

  • integrated recognition of operational costs and efficient capital costs;
  • parametric determination of the components recognized in the tariff;
  • application of average useful lives for the recognition of the depreciation component;
  • revision of the incentive mechanism;
  • selectivity of recognizable investments, to be justified with cost-benefit analysis

The paradigm shift will support the rationalization of the sector:

  • opportunity for efficient and more innovative companies to improve their profitability;
  • risk of under-remuneration of capital for inefficient companies;
  • incentives for aggregations

The energy transition

The European and Italian decarbonisation
goals
…………………………………………………….………
Pag. 60
The role of the gas sector in the energy transition ………………………………………………….…… Pag. 61
The new infrastructure grid ………………………………………………………………………………………………….…… Pag. 62
Dynamics of the renewable energy sector in Italy ………….……………………………………….…… Pag. 63

Both the European Union and Italy have based their growth targets for the next decade on the transition to a sustainable economy model

The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has exacerbated the energy market crisis already underway in 2021 related to the postpandemic recovery, leading to a further increase in volatility and energy commodity prices. One solution from the European Commission to reduce the EU's energy dependence on Russian gas supplies is the RePower EU plan that is part of the path of EU initiatives to foster Energy transition.

In the energy transition pathway, gas represents a key source that will have to ensure the transition from a fossil fuel-based energy model to one with low emissions

Potential need for reconversion of the gas network for the transport of green gases (**)

(*) Source: Snam document "Reference Scenarios for Gas Transmission Network Development Plans 2023-2032 and 2024-2033"; (**) Biomethane and hydrogen.

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 61 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

The gas network will require technological and infrastructural adjustments to facilitate the introduction and transport of "green" gases in order to decarbonise the system

Renewables in Italy show a trend of substantial growth over the past 10 years with a total installed capacity of ~70 GW

However, to achieve national decarbonization targets to 2030 will require at least 60-65 GW of new RES capacity to be installed in Italy establishing sound market conditions, investing in essential infrastructure and implementing effective regulatory and policy frameworks.

Italy's renewable mix is characterized by a general growth trend, emphasized by measures implemented at the EU level to address the Russian-Ukrainian crisis. By 2040, 65% of the projected installed renewable capacity will consist of photovoltaic

Ascopiave financial data

2020-2023 financial comparison …………………………………………………………………………………………………. Pag. 66
FY 2023 financial results ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…. Pag. 70
3M 2024 financial results ………………………….………………………………………………………………………………….…. Pag. 85

Ascopiave financial data (I)

2020-2023 financial comparison

Income statement Pag. 67
Balance sheet Pag. 68
Cash flows statement Pag. 69

Income statement

(Thousands
of Euros)
2023 2022 2021 2020
Revenues 180
794
,
163
651
,
134
911
,
163
896
,
(Cost
of
materials
and
consumables)
raw
of
(Cost
services)
(Cost
of
personnel)
(Other
operating
costs)
Other
operating
income
(2
265)
,
(50
474)
,
(20
914)
,
(29
580)
,
16
965
,
(2
876)
,
(50
968)
,
(20
550)
,
(21
647)
,
10
319
,
(2
063)
,
(38
728)
,
(17
017)
,
(11
293)
,
571
(1
782)
,
(36
776)
,
(17
132)
,
(44
511)
,
109
EBITDA 94
526
,
930
77
,
66
382
,
63
805
,
(Depreciations
and
amortizations)
(Provisions)
(48
232)
,
(305)
(45
975)
,
(44)
(32
509)
,
(34)
(34
465)
,
(189)
EBIT 990
45
,
31
911
,
33
838
,
29
151
,
Financial
income
/
(expenses)
Evaluation
of
with
method
companies
equity
(7
931)
,
3
566
,
(1
811)
,
871
7
,
1
532
,
19
892
,
1
847
,
18
310
,
EBT 41
626
,
37
972
,
55
263
,
49
308
,
(Income
taxes)
(5
005)
,
(6
999)
,
(9
937)
,
9
394
,
after
Earnings
taxes
36
621
,
30
974
,
45
326
,
58
701
,
income
(loss)
from
discontinued
operations
Net
56 1
466
,
- -
Net
income
36
677
,
32
440
,
45
326
,
58
701
,
of
(Net
income
minorities)
(501) 225 - -
income
of
the
Group
Net
36
176
,
32
665
,
326
45
,
58
701
,

Balance sheet

(Thousands
of Euros)
31/12/2023 31/12/2022 31/12/2021 31/12/2020
Tangible
assets
tangible
Non
assets
in
associates
Investments
Other
fixed
assets
Fixed
assets
156
475
,
766
353
,
308
331
,
42
780
,
273
939
1
,
,
138
432
,
759
743
,
436
287
,
43
877
,
378
339
1
,
,
58
012
,
647
279
,
521
359
,
35
169
,
261
819
1
,
,
33
443
,
626
685
,
515
729
,
34
276
,
210
134
1
,
,
Operating
current
assets
liabilities)
(Operating
current
(Operating
liabilities)
current
non
129
253
,
(95
936)
,
(63
749)
,
166
408
,
(199
201)
,
(63
072)
,
62
159
,
(59
727)
,
(48
259)
,
128
046
,
(98
759)
,
(47
071)
,
working
capital
Net
(30
432)
,
(95
866)
,
(45
828)
,
(17
784)
,
invested
capital
held
sale
Net
for
assets
138 15
790
,
- -
Total
capital
employed
1
243
645
,
,
1
298
262
,
,
1
215
991
,
,
1
192
350
,
,
shareholders
Group
equity
844
753
,
866
282
,
868
544
,
853
903
,
Minorities 9
529
,
20
123
,
(38) -
financial
Net
position
363
389
,
411
857
,
347
485
,
338
447
,
Total
sources
243
645
1
,
,
298
262
1
,
,
215
991
1
,
,
192
350
1
,
,

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 68 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

Cash flows statement

(Thousands
of Euros)
2023 2022 2021 2020
Self financing 63,521 56,473 53,205 71,172
Change in net working capital (operating activities) (45,959) 145,299 31,702 (7,014)
Change in net working capital (fiscal activities) (15,624) (19,719) (2,670) (21,553)
Change in net working capital (61,583) 125,580 29,032 (28,566)
Capex in tangible and intangible assets (87,577) (86,901) (52,862) (44,431)
Capex in companies acquisitions 113,412 (149,227) (24,652) (68,598)
Capex 25,835 (236,127) (77,514) (113,029)
Change in shareholders' equity (5,279) (10,298) (13,763) (55,042)
Net financial position change 22,494 (64,372) (9,039) (125,465)

Ascopiave financial data (II)

FY 2023 financial results

Financial highlights

FY 2023 consolidated income statement Pag. 71
Consolidated balance sheet as of 31st December 2023 Pag. 72

Companies consolidated with full consolidation method

Operating data –
gas distribution
Pag. 73
Operating data –
renewable energies ……………………………………………………………………………………………….
Pag. 74
Revenues bridge Pag. 75
EBIT bridge Pag. 76
Gas distribution tariff revenues and revenues from RES Pag. 77
Other net operating costs Pag. 78
Number of employees Pag. 79
Cost of personnel Pag. 80
Capex Pag. 81
Net Financial Position and cash flow Pag. 82
Financial debt and cost of debt Pag. 83
Estenergy
Group
Estenergy
Group financial highlights
Pag. 84

(Thousand
of
Euro)
12M
2023
12M
2022
Chg Chg
%
Revenues 180,794 163,651 17,143 +10%
(Purchase
for
other
raw materials)
costs
(2,265) (2,876) 611 -21%
for
(Costs
services)
(50,474) (50,968) 494 -1%
for
personnel)
(Costs
(20,914) (20,550) (365) +2%
(Other
costs)
management
(29,580) (21,647) (7,933) +37%
Other
income
16,965 10,319 6,646 +64%
EBITDA 94,526 77,930 16,596 +21%
and
depreciation)
(Amortizations
(48,232) (45,975) (2,256) +5%
(Provisions) (305) (44) (261) +599%
EBIT 45,990 31,911 14,079 +44%
Financial
income
/
(expenses)
(7,931) (1,811) (6,120) +338%
(*)
Evaluation
of
companies
with
equity
method
net
3,566 7,871 (4,305) -55%
EBT 41,626 37,972 3,654 +10%
(Income
taxes)
(5,005) (6,999) 1,994 -28%
Earnings
after
taxes
36,621 30,974 5,647 +18%
Net
result
from
discontinued
operations
56 1,466 (1,410) -96%
Net
income
36,677 32,440 4,237 +13%
Net
income
of
minorities
(501) 225 (726) -322%
of
the
Net
income
Group
36,176 32,665 3,511 +11%

(*) Result of the companies consolidated with net equity consolidation method (pro-rata): Estenergy Group and Cogeide.

Consolidated balance sheet as of 31st December 2023

(Thousand
of
Euro)
31/12/2023 31/12/2022 Chg Chg
%
Tangible
(*)
assets
156
475
,
138
432
,
18
042
,
+13%
(*)
tangible
Non
assets
766
353
,
759
743
,
6
611
,
+1%
(**)
Investments
in
associates
308
331
,
436
287
,
(127
956)
,
-29%
Other
fixed
assets
42
780
,
43
877
,
(1
097)
,
-3%
Fixed
assets
1
273
939
,
,
1
378
339
,
,
(104
400)
,
-8%
Operating
current
assets
129
253
,
166
408
,
(37
155)
,
-22%
(Operating
liabilities)
current
(95
936)
,
(199
201)
,
103
266
,
-52%
liabilities)
(Operating
non current
(63
749)
,
(63
072)
,
(677) +1%
working
capital
Net
(30
432)
,
(95
866)
,
65
434
,
-68%
Total
capital
employed
intended
sale
assets
to
138 15
790
,
(15
652)
,
-99%
Total
capital
employed
243
645
1
,
,
298
262
1
,
,
(54
617)
,
-4%
Group
shareholders
equity
844
753
,
866
282
,
(21
529)
,
-2%
Minorities 9
529
,
20
123
,
(10
594)
,
-53%
Shareholders
equity
854
282
,
886
405
,
(32
123)
,
-4%
Net
financial
position
389
363
,
411
857
,
(22
494)
,
-5%
Total
sources
1
243
645
,
,
1
298
262
,
,
(54
617)
,
-4%

(*) According to IFRIC 12, the infrastructures under concession are consedered intangible assets;

(**) Value of the associated companies consolidated with net equity consolidation method (pro-rata): Estenergy, Euro 202.8 mln (Euro 349.5 mln as of 31st December 2022); Hera Comm, Euro 53.3 mln (Euro 53.3 mln as of 31st December 2022); Acinque, Euro 21.6 mln (Euro 24.9 mln as of 31st December 2022); Cogeide, Euro 8.2 mln (Euro 8.5 mln as of 31st December 2022); Acantho, Euro 22.3 mln (Euro 0.0 mln as of 31st December 2022).

Operating data – gas distribution

Number of gas distribution users (Million of standard cubic meters) Volumes of gas distributed 874,376 889,739 31/12/2023 31/12/2022 1,349.4 1,455.6 82.6 12M 2023 12M 2022 -15,363 -2% -23.6 -2% 1,432.0 New consolidation area (*)

(*) Change of consolidation area: data referring to Romeo Gas and Serenissima Gas, companies consolidated from 1st April 2022.

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 73 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 74 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

(*) Change of consolidation area: data referring to Romeo Gas and Serenissima Gas, companies consolidated from 1st April 2022;

(**) Tariff revenues include the tariff component for the recovery of the fee paid to local entities according to art. 46-bis DL 159/2007.

(*) Change of consolidation area: data referring to Romeo Gas and Serenissima Gas, companies consolidated from 1st April 2022;

(**) Further details on page 78 of the current presentation.

Gas distribution tariff revenues

(Thousand
of
Euro)
(*)
12M
2023
12M
2022
Chg Chg
%
Gas
distribution
tariff
revenues
124,084 113,561 10,523 +9%
distribution
Gas
tariff
revenues
124,084 113,561 10,523 +9%

Change of the consolidation area: + Euro 3.5 mln

Increase of gas distribution tariff revenues of equal consolidation area: + Euro 7.1 mln of which:

  • revision of tariff operating costs provided by Arera Res. 409/2023/R/Gas: + Euro 0.9 mln;
  • increased revenues due to 2022 tariff revenues equalization: + Euro 1.4 mln;
  • other changes (mainly due to the growth of the regulatory asset base): + Euro 4.8 mln.

Revenues from RES

(Thousand
of
Euro)
(*)
12M
2023
12M
2022
Chg Chg
%
Revenues
from
FER
19,376 10,987 8,388 +76%
Revenues
from
FER
19,376 10,987 8,388 +76%

(*) Economic data before elisions

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 77 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

(Thousand
of
Euro)
12M
2023
12M
2022
Chg Chg
%
Other
revenues
35,716 37,496 (1,780) -5%
Other
of
raw materials
and
services
costs
(63,735) (63,564) (170) +0%
Cost
of
personnel
(20,914) (20,550) (365) +2%
Other
operating
net
costs
(48,933) (46,618) (2,315) +5%

Change of the consolidation area: - Euro 2.1 mln

Increase of other net operating costs of equal consolidation area: - Euro 0.2 mln

of which:

  • increase of gas distribution concession fees: - Euro 1.6 mln;
  • decrease of margin on energy efficiency tasks management: - Euro 0.3 mln;
  • decrease of costs for consultancy: + Euro 2.7 mln;
  • decrease of costs for gas and electricity: + Euro 1.5 mln;
  • decrease of revenues due to the fee paid by Estenergy Group and Amgas Blu in the first half 2022 for the early termination of some service contracts: - Euro 6.5 mln;
  • decrease of revenues for the termination of service contracts towards Estenergy Group and Amgas Blu: - Euro 3.2 mln;
  • increase of CSEA contributions for security incentives: + Euro 4.1 mln;
  • increase of gas meter reading costs: - Euro 1.6 mln;
  • increase of capital gains from the sale of assets and shareholdings: + Euro 6.8 mln;
  • increase of other non recurring costs: - Euro 2.1 mln;
  • other variations: + Euro 0.0 mln.

(*) Economic data before elisions

Number of employees

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 79 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

*) Change of consolidation area: data referring to Romeo Gas and Serenissima Gas, companies consolidated from 1st April 2022.

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 80 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

(*) Excluding network extension in new urbanized areas that according to IAS are considerated as operating costs and not capital expenditures;

(**) Investments in intangible assets and in tangible assets (excluded realizations, investments in associated and investments relative to the application of IFRS 16 accounting principle);

(***) Change of consolidation area: data referring to Romeo Gas and Serenissima Gas, companies consolidated from 1st April 2022..

(*) Cash flow = net income + amortizations and depreciation - capital gains from the sale of assets and shareholdings - income from equity investments; (**) Investments in tangible and intangible assets; (***) Acquisition of shareholding in Acantho (11.35%): - Euro 22.3 mln; acquisition of shareholding in Romeo Gas (19.707%): - Euro 16.2 mln; acquisition of shareholding in Serenissima Gas (20.63%): - Euro 7.5 mln; acquisition of shareholding in Salinella Eolico (40%): - Euro 7.1 mln; acquisition of assets of Retragas: - Euro 1.3 mln; (*****) Sale of 15% shareholding in Estenergy: + Euro 137.5 mln; sale of tangible and intangible fixed assets connected to the Romeo 2 operation: + Euro 20.9 mln; cash in of the reimbursement value of the plants due to the termination of some municipal gas distribution concessions: + Euro 9.5 mln.

Financial debt and cost of debt

(Thousand
of
Euro)
(*)
31/12/2023 31/12/2022 Chg Chg
%
financial
borrowings
Long
term
204
064
,
178
538
,
25
526
,
+14%
of
long
financial
borrowings
Current
position
term
80
642
,
119
280
,
(38
638)
,
-32%
Long
bond
loans
term
86
347
,
94
033
,
(7
686)
,
-8%
Current
position
of
bond
loans
7
708
,
- 7
708
,
n.a.
Short
financial
borrowings
term
7
917
,
(12
912)
,
20
829
,
-161%
Total
financial
debt
386
678
,
378
939
,
7
739
,
+2%
Fixed
borrowings
rate
221
994
,
290
164
,
(68
170)
,
-23%
Floating
borrowings
rate
164
684
,
88
775
,
75
909
,
+86%

12M 2023 average cost of debt: 2.57% (vs 12M 2022 rate: 1.13%)

(*) Data refer to only companies consolidated with full consolidation method.

Income statement (*) Balance sheet (*)

(Thousand
of
Euro)
12M
2023
12M
2022
Revenues 1,123,300 1,657,396
(Purchase
for
other
raw materials)
costs
(909,400) (1,391,670)
(Costs
for
services)
(127,995) (189,587)
for
personnel)
(Costs
(15,080) (15,973)
(Other
costs)
management
(1,453) (957)
EBITDA 69,373 59,208
(Depreciations
and
amortizations)
+ (provisions)
(44,729) (35,959)
EBIT 24,644 23,248
Financial
income
/
(expenses)
(7,240) 896
EBT 17,404 24,145
(Income
taxes)
(5,830) (7,493)
Net
income
11,573 16,652
(Thousand
of
Euro)
31/12/2023 31/12/2022
Tangible
assets
5,522 4,100
Non
tangible
assets
627,170 634,106
Investments
in
associates
17,704 17,717
Other
fixed
assets
781 (19,658)
Fixed
assets
651,177 636,265
Operating
current
assets
90,953 626,076
(Operating
liabilities)
current
(206,459) (196,464)
(Operating
liabilities)
non current
(64,689) (42,231)
working
capital
Net
(180,195) 387,380
Total
capital
employed
470,981 1,023,645
Shareholders
equity
639,625 701,824
financial
Net
position
(168,644) 321,822
Total
sources
470,981 1,023,645

(*) Data refers to 100% of Estenergy.

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 84 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

Ascopiave financial data (III)

3M 2024 financial results

Financial highlights

3M 2024 consolidated income statement Pag. 86
Consolidated balance sheet as of 31st March 2024 Pag. 87

Companies consolidated with full consolidation method

Operating data –
gas distribution
Pag. 88
Operating data –
renewable energies ……………………………………………………………………………………………….
Pag. 89
Revenues bridge Pag. 90
EBIT bridge Pag. 91
Gas distribution tariff revenues and revenues from RES Pag. 92
Other net operating costs Pag. 93
Number of employees Pag. 94
Cost of personnel Pag. 95
Capex Pag. 96
Net Financial Position and cash flow Pag. 97
Financial debt and cost of debt Pag. 98
Estenergy
Group
Estenergy
Group financial highlights
Pag. 99

(Thousand
of
Euro)
3M
2024
3M
2023
Chg Chg
%
Revenues 47,440 40,719 6,721 +17%
(Purchase
for
other
raw materials)
costs
(787) (803) 16 -2%
(Costs
for
services)
(11,931) (11,929) (2) +0%
(Costs
for
personnel)
(5,112) (5,377) 266 -5%
(Other
costs)
management
(6,370) (6,550) 181 -3%
Other
income
83 4,201 (4,117) -98%
EBITDA 23,325 20,261 3,064 +15%
(Amortizations
and
depreciation)
(12,450) (11,723) (726) +6%
(Provisions) - (160) 160 -100%
EBIT 10,875 8,378 2,497 +30%
Financial
income
/
(expenses)
(4,467) (2,654) (1,813) +68%
(*)
Evaluation
of
companies
with
equity
method
net
2,779 567 2,212 +390%
EBT 9,187 6,291 2,896 +46%
(Income
taxes)
(2,495) (702) (1,793) +255%
Earnings
after
taxes
6,692 5,589 1,103 +20%
result
from
discontinued
Net
operations
- 44 (44) -100%
Net
income
6,692 5,633 1,058 +19%
of
Net
income
minorities
(146) 188 (334) -178%
Net
income
of
the
Group
6,546 5,821 725 +12%

(*) Result of the companies consolidated with net equity consolidation method (pro-rata): Estenergy Group and Cogeide.

Consolidated balance sheet as of 31st March 2024

(Thousand
of
Euro)
31/03/2024 31/12/2023 Chg Chg
%
Tangible
(*)
assets
154
668
,
156
475
,
(1
807)
,
-1%
(*)
tangible
Non
assets
770
343
,
766
353
,
3
989
,
+1%
(**)
Investments
in
associates
311
840
,
308
331
,
3
510
,
+1%
Other
fixed
assets
42
873
,
42
780
,
93 +0%
Fixed
assets
1
279
724
,
,
1
273
939
,
,
5
785
,
+0%
Operating
current
assets
182
881
,
129
253
,
53
629
,
+41%
(Operating
liabilities)
current
(124
145)
,
(95
936)
,
(28
210)
,
+29%
liabilities)
(Operating
non current
(64
993)
,
(63
749)
,
(1
244)
,
+2%
working
capital
Net
(6
257)
,
(30
432)
,
24
175
,
-79%
Total
capital
employed
intended
sale
assets
to
- 138 (138) -100%
Total
capital
employed
1
273
467
,
,
1
243
645
,
,
29
822
,
+2%
Group
shareholders
equity
851
668
,
844
753
,
6
915
,
+1%
Minorities 9
639
,
9
529
,
110 +1%
Shareholders
equity
861
307
,
854
282
,
7
025
,
+1%
Net
financial
position
412
159
,
389
363
,
22
796
,
+6%
Total
sources
1
273
467
,
,
1
243
645
,
,
29
822
,
+2%

(*) According to IFRIC 12, the infrastructures under concession are considered intangible assets.

(**) Value of the associated companies consolidated with net equity consolidation method (pro-rata): Estenergy, Euro 206.3 mln (Euro 202.8 mln as of 31st December 2023); Cogeide, Euro 8.2 mln (Euro 8.2 mln as of 31st December 2023). Other minority shareholdings: Hera Comm, Euro 53.3 mln (Euro 53.3 mln as of 31st December 2023); Acinque, Euro 21.6 mln (Euro 21.6 mln as of 31st December 2023); Acantho, Euro 22.3 mln (Euro 22.3 mln as of 31st December 2023).

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 88 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 89 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

(*) Tariff revenues include the tariff component for the recovery of the fee paid to local entities according to art. 46-bis DL 159/2007.

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 90 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

(*) Further details on page 93 of the current presentation.

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 91 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

Gas distribution tariff revenues

(Thousand
of
Euro)
(*)
3M
2024
3M
2023
Chg Chg
%
Gas
distribution
tariff
revenues
33,806 29,753 4,053 +14%
Gas
distribution
tariff
revenues
33,806 29,753 4,053 +14%

Increase of gas distribution tariff revenues: + Euro 4.1 mln

of which:

  • change of the remuneration rate on the net capital invested (WACC): + Euro 1.9 mln;
  • monetary revaluation of capital costs: + Euro 0.9 mln;
  • monetary revaluation of operating costs: + Euro 0.8 mln;
  • other changes: + Euro 0.5 mln.

Revenues from RES

(Thousand
of
Euro)
(*)
3M
2024
3M
2023
Chg Chg
%
Revenues
from
FER
6,153 2,410 3,743 +155%
Revenues
from
FER
6,153 2,410 3,743 +155%

(*) Economic data before elisions.

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 92 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

(Thousand
of
Euro)
3M
2024
3M
2023
Chg Chg
%
Other
revenues
7,076 8,152 (1,075) -13%
Other
of
raw materials
and
services
costs
(18,599) (14,677) (3,922) +27%
Cost
of
personnel
(5,112) (5,377) 266 -5%
Other
operating
net
costs
(16,634) (11,902) (4,732) +40%

Increase of other net operating costs: - Euro 4.7 mln

of which:

  • increase of gas distribution concession fees: - Euro 0.4 mln;
  • increase of margin on energy efficiency tasks management: + Euro 0.1 mln;
  • decrease of costs for consultancy: + Euro 0.1 mln;
  • decrease of costs for gas and electricity: + Euro 0.4 mln;
  • decrease of cost of personnel: + Euro 0.3 mln;
  • decrease of revenues for service contracts: - Euro 1.0 mln;
  • increase of gas meter reading costs: - Euro 0.4 mln;
  • decrease of capital gains from the sale of assets and shareholdings: - Euro 4.1 mln;
  • decrease of other non recurring costs: + Euro 0.7 mln;
  • other variations: - Euro 0.4 mln.

Number of employees

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 94 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 95 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

(*) Excluding network extension in new urbanized areas that according to IAS are considered as operating costs and not capital expenditures.

(**) Investments in intangible assets and in tangible assets (excluded realizations, investments in associated and investments relative to the application of IFRS 16 accounting principle).

(*) Cash flow = net income + amortizations and depreciation; (**) Investments in tangible and intangible assets.

Financial debt and cost of debt

(Thousand
of
Euro)
(*)
31/03/2024 31/12/2023 Chg Chg
%
financial
borrowings
Long
term
180
950
,
204
064
,
(23
114)
,
-11%
of
long
financial
borrowings
Current
position
term
77
929
,
80
642
,
(2
713)
,
-3%
Long
bond
loans
term
78
677
,
86
347
,
(7
670)
,
-9%
Current
position
of
bond
loans
7
603
,
7
708
,
(105) -1%
Short
financial
borrowings
term
64
149
,
7
917
,
56
232
,
+710%
Total
financial
debt
409
308
,
386
678
,
22
630
,
+6%
Fixed
borrowings
rate
206
435
,
221
994
,
(15
559)
,
-7%
Floating
borrowings
rate
202
873
,
164
684
,
38
189
,
+23%

3M 2024 average cost of debt: 3.41% (vs 12M 2023 rate: 2.57%)

(*) Data refer to only companies consolidated with full consolidation method.

Income statement (*) Balance sheet (*)

(Thousand
of
Euro)
3M
2024
3M
2023
Revenues 377,233 387,075
(Purchase
for
other
raw materials)
costs
(238,788) (408,536)
(Costs
for
services)
(102,918) 39,591
for
personnel)
(Costs
(3,827) (3,808)
(Other
costs)
management
(191) (106)
EBITDA 31,510 14,216
(Depreciations
and
amortizations)
+ (provisions)
(14,907) (10,566)
EBIT 16,603 3,651
Financial
income
/
(expenses)
(1,298) (3,882)
EBT 15,305 (232)
(Income
taxes)
(4,690) 54
Net
income
10,615 (177)
(Thousand
of
Euro)
31/03/2024 31/12/2023
Tangible
assets
5,425 5,522
Non
tangible
assets
624,398 627,170
Investments
in
associates
18,458 17,704
Other
fixed
assets
719 781
Fixed
assets
649,000 651,177
Operating
current
assets
117,219 90,953
(Operating
liabilities)
current
(267,336) (206,459)
liabilities)
(Operating
non current
(70,069) (64,689)
working
capital
Net
(220,186) (180,195)
Total
capital
employed
428,815 470,981
Shareholders
equity
653,874 639,625
Net
financial
position
(225,060) (168,644)
Total
sources
428,815 470,981

(*) Data refers to 100% of Estenergy.

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 99 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

Ascopiave Group – Mediobanca 10 100 th ITALIAN CEO Conference – 19th June 2024

Disclaimer

  • ❑ This presentation has been prepared by Ascopiave S.p.A. for information purposes only and for use in presentations of the Group's results and strategies.
  • ❑ For further details on the Ascopiave Group, reference should be made to publicly available information, including the Quarterly Reports and the Annual reports.
  • ❑ Statements contained in this presentation, particularly the ones regarding any Ascopiave Group possible or assumed future performance, are or may be forward looking statements and in this respect they involve some risks and uncertainties. A number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward looking statement. Such factors include, but are not limited to: changes in global economic business, changes in the price of certain commodities including electricity and gas, the competitive market and regulatory factors. Moreover, forward looking statements are currently only at the date they are made.
  • ❑ Any reference to past performance of the Ascopiave Group shall not be taken as an indication of the future performance.
  • ❑ This document does not constitute an offer or invitation to purchase or subscribe for any shares and nopart of it shall form the basis of or be relied upon in connection with any contract or commitment whatsoever.
  • ❑ By attending the presentation you agree to be bound by the foregoing terms.

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