security of supply and the future of energy transition
On Monday, September 30, 2024, business partners and decision-makers from business and industry as well as various institutions were invited to a special celebration at the Wien Museum. The occasion was the 50th anniversary of the transmission system of TAG GmbH, a leading Austrian transmission system operator and important partner for the domestic and European energy supply based in Vienna. Together they looked back on the company’s successful history and the future of energy supply with grid-connected renewable forms of energy such as biogas and hydrogen was also discussed in detail.
50 years of innovation and security of supply
The success story of TAG GmbH began in 1974 with the first gas flow through the TAG pipeline system. With over 1,140 km of pipelines, the TAG system is the largest high-pressure network in Austria. It consists of three parallel pipelines (TAG I, TAG II and TAG Loop 2) and five compressor stations and enables a flexible and reliable energy supply in both directions – both from Austria to Italy and vice versa.
“We can be proud of what has been achieved over the last 50 years. TAG GmbH is an important player on the European energy market that is also actively shaping the energy transition,” says Brigitte Straka-Lang, Managing Director of TAG GmbH.
Increasing capacities and pioneering hydrogen
Another important milestone in increasing security of supply is the expansion of import capacities to Austria and neighboring countries. From October 1, 2024, approx. 11 GWh/h can be imported via the Italian grid instead of the previous approx. 8 GWh/h. This will enable Austria to purchase an additional 25 TWh of gas per year from Italy, increasing the annual technical capacity from Italy to Austria from 71 TWh to 96 TWh.
In parallel to these capacity increases, TAG GmbH is pursuing an ambitious vision for the future: the “H2 Readiness” project aims to convert parts of the pipeline system for the transportation of hydrogen by 2030. This transformation is also reflected in the corporate vision “We support the flow of even more sustainable energy” and positions TAG GmbH as a pioneer in the use of renewable energies.
“The future will undoubtedly require an expansion of renewable energy sources, and we’re proud that TAG GmbH is playing a leading role in the hydrogen transformation. With the dedication of our 180 team members and the support of our diverse stakeholders, we’re committed to building the energy infrastructure of tomorrow, where everyone’s contribution is essential to our success,” adds Daniele Gamba, Managing Director of TAG GmbH.
Top-class speakers and numerous industry representatives
Numerous national and international business partners and decision-makers from business and industry as well as various institutions accepted the invitation to this special anniversary, including the owner representatives Stefano Venier, CEO of Snam S.p.A., and Peter F. Kollmann, CFO and Deputy Chairman of the Executive Board of VERBUND AG, who addressed the jubilarian and the numerous audience members. The program was rounded off with a keynote speech by Anitra Eggler, a pioneer in the field of digital detox. With a great deal of humor and a twinkle in her eye, she provided insights into the challenges and opportunities of the digital age and artificial intelligence. The evening ended in a relaxed atmosphere with a cozy get-together and atmospheric soul music.
