Fermo to lose majority control of Solgas in Astea Energia merger

The municipality of Fermo is set to lose majority control of Solgas following a merger with Astea Energia. Under the terms of the operation, Fermo will transition from holding a 51% majority stake in Solgas to approximately a 5% minority stake in the resulting entity, Astea Energia. The Gruppo Società Gas Rimini will hold approximately 89.6% of the capital, shifting control to a private partner.

Administrators justify the merger as a necessary step to remain competitive in the energy market by creating a larger company with more commercial tools. While the deal includes a partial distribution of Solgas 2025 profits and dividend guarantees for a limited period, the long-term economic impact remains a subject of debate.

In response to the decision, councilor Andrea Morroni is evaluating a legal appeal to the TAR (Regional Administrative Court). Morroni is investigating whether the municipal council was provided sufficient time and documentation to evaluate the complex merger, noting that documents were reportedly delivered only six days before the vote. The appeal may seek to suspend the deliberation approved by the Fermo City Council on September 24, 2026.