Alpha is proud to highlight its parent company’s involvement in Italy’s first residential trial to inject hydrogen into the domestic gas network – an initiative that marks a significant step towards a more sustainable energy future.
In Castelfranco Emilia, Inrete Distribuzione Energia (Hera Group), in collaboration with the Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security and the Italian Gas Committee, has launched a pioneering pilot project that involves mixing hydrogen with natural gas in the local distribution network. It will then supply it to around 40 homes – making it the first of its kind in Italy’s residential heating sector.
The project began in 2022 with a 2% hydrogen blend and reached 5% in March 2025, with a target of 10% in the near future. This advancement demonstrates how the existing gas infrastructure can be part of the transition to cleaner energy, without requiring costly overhauls for consumers.
Immergas’ contribution to this trial draws on the expertise developed through its HyPOWERED project—an R&D initiative co-financed by the Emilia-Romagna Region. The project led to the creation of the Victrix Superior boiler range, which is certified Hydrogen Ready up to 20% and is capable of running on various fuel blends. Today, all new boilers manufactured by Immergas are designed with this hydrogen-ready capability as standard.
This innovation directly benefits Alpha customers in the UK, where forward-thinking solutions are key to supporting homeowners through the evolving landscape of low-carbon heating. The same Hydrogen Ready technology found in Immergas products is present in Alpha’s latest range of boilers – helping customers prepare for the future of heating without compromising on performance today.
“As part of the Immergas family, we at Alpha are proud of the continued innovation that helps accelerate the transition to sustainable heating,” said Andrea Carmeli, Managing Director at Alpha. “The work in Castelfranco Emilia reflects our shared commitment to practical, future-ready solutions that don’t just look good on paper, they work in real homes.”
This landmark trial showcases how collaborative innovation can create scalable solutions that reduce emissions while maintaining comfort and affordability for households. It’s a powerful example of how Alpha, backed by Immergas’ legacy of innovation, is ready to meet the heating needs of tomorrow.