PGE 2026: Italy’s Pipeline & Gas Expo – Energy Infrastructure Focus

Piacenza, Italy, is preparing to host the fourth edition of PGE – Pipeline & Gas Expo, a specialized event dedicated to energy infrastructure. The conference and exhibition, scheduled for February 4-6, will focus on the technologies and services related to the design, construction, management, and maintenance of pipelines, including those for gas, oil, and water, as well as energy storage systems.

The Growing Importance of Energy Infrastructure

The event, organized by Mediapoint & Exhibitions, is expected to draw over 90 exhibitors – including 14 international companies – across approximately 6,000 square meters of exhibition space at Piacenza Expo. PGE 2026 aims to be a key forum for companies, designers, network managers, utilities, and institutions to discuss strategies for enhancing national energy security, improving business competitiveness, and stabilizing costs for both households and industry.

Did You Know? Italy currently depends on foreign sources for 74% of its energy needs, according to the Med & Italian Energy Report.

Europe’s Evolving Energy Landscape

The focus on pipeline infrastructure comes at a time of significant change in the European energy mix. Since 2000, natural gas usage has increased from 12% to 15%, while renewable energy sources have grown substantially, from 15% to 47%. In Italy, renewables now account for 49% of electricity generation. This shift underscores the continued strategic importance of gas as a transitional fuel and the need for modern, secure, and interconnected infrastructure.

Investment in these networks is substantial. The Rapporto Utilities 2026 from Agici indicates that major utilities and Gas & Power operators are planning over 50 billion euros in investments for the development and modernization of transport and distribution infrastructure by 2030, with approximately 40% of these resources allocated directly to the networks themselves.

Expert Insight: The planned investments in pipeline infrastructure suggest a recognition that maintaining and upgrading these systems is crucial, not just for immediate energy security, but also for facilitating the transition to a more diversified and sustainable energy future.

A Hub for Innovation and Collaboration

PGE – Pipeline & Gas Expo has secured the patronage of numerous institutions, including the Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security, the Conference of Regions and Autonomous Provinces, the Emilia-Romagna and Liguria Regions, the Italian Air Force, and the Municipality of Piacenza. International support comes from ProChile, alongside key industry associations like Iploca and G.I.S.I.

The event will also feature a comprehensive program of conferences, workshops, and technical seminars. Topics will include the current state of Italian and global energy infrastructure, security, monitoring, and cybersecurity for pipelines, trenchless technologies, and the role of designers in modernizing underground networks.

Looking Ahead

Fabio Potestà, Director of Mediapoint & Exhibitions, noted that recent geopolitical tensions have highlighted the resilience of Italy’s energy system, thanks to substantial storage capacity and a responsive transport and distribution network. However, he emphasized that this resilience should be built upon with structural improvements to the country’s infrastructure.

The Mayor of Piacenza, Katia Tarasconi, stated that the event reinforces Piacenza’s position as a key location for dialogue and innovation in the energy sector. Giuseppe Cavalli, president of Piacenza Expo, highlighted the event’s economic impact, anticipating over 200,000 attendees annually and solidifying the city’s role as a platform for innovation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of PGE – Pipeline & Gas Expo?

The event is entirely dedicated to the infrastructure of the Mid-Stream energy sector, covering technologies and services for the design, construction, management, and maintenance of pipelines and related systems.

What percentage of Italy’s energy needs are currently met by foreign sources?

According to the Med & Italian Energy Report, Italy is currently dependent on foreign sources for 74% of its energy needs.

What types of organizations are expected to participate in PGE 2026?

The event anticipates participation from companies, designers, network managers, multiutilities, and institutions involved in the energy sector.

As energy demands and geopolitical landscapes continue to evolve, how might events like PGE – Pipeline & Gas Expo contribute to a more secure and sustainable energy future?