Naturgy has strengthened its presence in Brussels, the political and administrative epicentre of the European Union (EU), in line with its leadership as an energy sector company and a key player in the energy transition. By opening its public affairs office in the EU capital, the company reinforces its commitment to the European agenda and its willingness to actively contribute to the EU’s energy dialogue.
The public affairs office inauguration, held at the Musée BELvue, was attended by Chairman and CEO Francisco Reynés and Jordi Garcia Tabernero, Managing Director of Public Affairs and Sustainability.
More than 100 guests attended the event including prominent institutional representatives such as Oriol Escalas, Ambassador Deputy Permanent Representative of Spain to the European Union; several MEPs, European Commission officials, the Permanent Representation of Spain to the European Union, as well as representatives of Chambers of Commerce, businesses, civil society in the city, and European and international associations. Manuel García Cobaleda, General Secretary and Secretary of the Board of Directors, and Jon Ganuza, Managing Director of Procurement and Wholesale Markets, also attended on behalf of Naturgy. The heads of this office are David Gallardo, Director of International Public Affairs, and Jacinto Pico, Head of European Affairs.
In his speech, Francisco Reynés stated that “one of the most important things happening in Brussels is energy”. He highlighted the key importance of European policy and processes in Brussels in the current energy situation, which motivates the reinforced presence of Naturgy in the EU capital, in a clear commitment to anticipate trends, contribute proposals and defend the interests of the company and its customers.
Furthermore, Naturgy’s CEO stressed that “the main challenge facing European energy policy is to balance three major objectives: to progress in decarbonisation, ensure security of supply and maintain affordable prices for citizens and businesses. We are committed to maintaining this complex balance and therefore participate in key policy forums, such as those in Brussels, to share our vision and knowledge of the energy sector”.
During his stay in Brussels, Francisco Reynés participated in a conference with the EU Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy, Jessika Roswall, organised by the Spanish Chamber of Commerce.
The opening of Naturgy’s public affairs office in Brussels coincides with a key moment for European energy policy, marked by the adoption of relevant measures such as the Affordable Energy Action Plan. Launched on 26 February by the European Commission, the main objectives of this plan are to reduce energy costs in the short term, accelerate cost-saving structural reforms and strengthen Europe’s energy systems in the face of future price shocks.