The shareholders' meeting of Hera Group approved the 2024 budget, marked by a solid economic and financial performance. The adjusted EBITDA has risen to 1.587,6 million euro, with a growth of 6,2 % driven largely by organic and structural dynamics.
The adjusted net profit attributable to shareholders He has reached 494,5 million euro, up by 31,8 % compared to the previous year. Gross operating investments also recorded an increase of 5,5 %, attesting to 860,3 million euro, demonstrating the attention to resilience and asset development, made even more crucial after the extreme weather events that hit Emilia-Romagna in 2024.
Net financial debt rises to 3.963,7 million euro, mainly due to increased investments and M&A transactions, including the acquisition of 70% of TRS Ecology. However, the debt/EBITDA ratio fell to 2,50x, confirming the Group's financial solidity and flexibility.
Dividend at 15 cents per share: +7,1% compared to 2023
The assembly approved the distribution of a dividend of 15 cents per share, up by 7,1 % compared to the last dividend distributed. The coupon payment is expected for the June 23, 2025, with payment on 25nd June.
The growth in shareholder remuneration is perfectly consistent with the Industrial Plan 2024-2028, which provides for a progressive increase in the dividend up to 17 cents a share by 2028, accompanied by growth in net earnings per share of 6% average per year.
Sustainability integrated into the budget: the new CSRD manager debuts
For the first time, the Sustainability reporting has been presented as an integral part of the consolidated financial statements, in accordance with the European CSRD Directive (Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive).
Hera has also introduced the figure of the Manager responsible for Sustainability Reporting, a figure provided for by Legislative Decree 125/2024. The new Article 29 of the Articles of Association regulates the appointment criteria, professional requirements and operating methods of this new function, in line with the strengthening of ESG reporting provided for by the European Green Deal.
Shared value grows: sustainability and territorial impact
In the 2024, the Shared Value Mol (CSV) – generated by activities in line with sustainability objectives – has achieved 856,6 million euro, Equal to 54% of total Mol, with an increase of 10 % compared to 2023. The goal, according to the industrial plan, is to reach 1,1 billion euros of Mol Csv in 2028, covering the 66 % of the total.
Even the shared value investments grow significantly: from 558,4 to 655,1 million euros, now representing the 76% of total gross operating investments. Hera also reports that 90% of eco-sustainable investments are already compliant with the EU Taxonomy, making a concrete contribution to climate mitigation, the circular economy and environmental protection.
Il economic value distributed to stakeholders in the territories served it exceeded in 2024 2,1 billion euros, demonstrating the multiplier effect that the multiutility has on the local economy.
Other resolutions: accounting review, buyback and governance
In addition to the budget and sustainability issues, the Assembly deliberated on other relevant aspects of governance:
- Integration of compensation to Kpmg, statutory auditor of the Group, following the expansion of the scope of action and the new regulatory requirements.
- Renewal of buyback authorization, with the possibility of purchasing own shares for a maximum value of 240 million euro within the next 18 months.
- Approval of the remuneration policy, in line with international best practices.
