Enel SpA (Enel), an energy utility, which generates, transports, and distributes electricity in 33 countries has set up a Global Task Force to maintain business operations and keep its employees safe through the COVID-19 pandemic, according to GlobalData a leading data and analytics company.

Somik Das, Senior Power Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “Enel’s task force provides official guidance to all its global sites, which is helping the company address local emergencies. As most of the company’s sites are fully digitalized, over 55% of its employees have been able to work remotely with no negative impact on group operations.’’

Stress testing has been carried out on Enel’s network and power plant operations in a series of infrastructure simulations, tests, and verifications to prepare employees to deal with any eventuality and all international travel has been cancelled where possible.

Das continues: “A strong liquidity position and the business mix is helping the company to deal with the pandemic in an effective way. In order to maintain cashflows, tackle supply chain disruptions, handle repairs and replacement of components, utilities need to have proper liquidity. To cater to reduced demand and uncertain market conditions, arising from the pandemic, utilities would want to ensure that they have enough liquidity to safeguard their performance and smooth running of operations”

Remote smart working has been extended, smaller teams have been organized and increased social distancing implemented by introducing shift working for essential workers. Non-core maintenance activities have been rescheduled or postponed wherever possible and all internal events and training courses are being carried out using virtual attendance tools.

Das adds: “Enel’s global task force constantly monitors the country-wide news on COVID-19 and uses it to suggest the necessary actions that need to be taken to guarantee service continuity whilst ensuring the safety and security of the company’s employees.”