Taranto Open Lab, innovation hub for clean-tech startups
Eni's new project unveiled at the TEF – Taranto Eco Forum. 11 June 2025
The launch of the Taranto Open Lab project, developed by Eni in partnership with Joule, was officially announced at the TEF (Taranto Eco Forum). The project aims to identify clean-tech startups and establish an innovation hub in the Apulian city, making it a more attractive location for businesses.
“This is the very purpose of Joule,” explained Mattia Voltaggio, head of Joule, who spoke at the event. “We aim to support entrepreneurship, particularly among young people leaving universities and research centres, and help them create jobs that contribute to the real economy.”
The Eco Forum, which took place on 22 and 23 May, was also attended by six companies working with the Eni refinery in Taranto to develop practical solutions for industrial transformation geared towards the circular economy, efficiency, and sustainability.
Mattia Voltaggio also led a panel discussion on how innovation can have a real impact on the local area.
The six companies taking part in the TEF:
- Distran: ultrasonic solutions for gas leak detection.
- GSN: specialised in smart sensors for gas emission monitoring.
- Surfcleaner AB: surface separators to remove contaminants from tanks and reservoirs.
- SLY: advanced monitoring systems for controlling atmospheric emissions.
- GEVI: specialised in renewable energy with mini wind turbines.
- Algae Scope: technologies based on macroalgae for the biofuel and biocoating supply chain.
