Rome, 11 March 2025 – The Italian Competition Authority has conditionally approved the acquisition of 2i Rete Gas Spa by Italgas Spa, imposing significant divestiture and behavioural measures to mitigate competition concerns in the natural gas distribution sector.
The transaction, which brings together Italy’s two largest natural gas distributors, raised concerns over potential competitive distortions, particularly in the upcoming area-based tenders for gas distribution concessions across 65 Italian minimum territorial areas (ATEMs). The Authority’s investigation, which involved market participants and industry associations, concluded that the acquisition could restrict competition unless corrective measures were implemented.
As a result, the Authority has mandated that Italgas divest at least 20% of the gas redelivery points it currently manages in 31 ATEMs. In an additional four ATEMs, Italgas must divest an amount equivalent to what it acquired from 2i Rete Gas. These divestitures will follow a structured process under the supervision of an independent monitoring trustee approved by the Authority.
Beyond divestitures, the Authority has also imposed behavioural remedies across all 65 ATEMs under review. These include financial, contractual, technical, and informational commitments designed to promote competitive participation in future tenders. The measures aim to ensure that other gas distributors can effectively compete with Italgas when bidding for concessions.
The decision reflects the Authority’s commitment to maintaining a competitive gas distribution market in Italy, balancing industry consolidation with the need to preserve fair competition and market access. Italgas must now comply with the imposed conditions to complete the acquisition.
Source: https://en.agcm.it/en/media/press-releases/2025/3/C12688
