General Luciano Portolano, Chief of the Defence Staff, attended the presentation of Barrel technology delivered by its founder, Matteo Villa
Barrel had the honor of participating in the “Smart Military Camps: Energy Efficiency and Logistic Sustainability” interforces demonstration, promoted by the IV Department of the Italian Defense General Staff. The event took place at the Città Militare della Cecchignola from April 2 to 4, 2025. This initiative represented an important opportunity for collaboration between the Armed Forces and the national industrial sector, aimed at testing cutting-edge sustainable energy solutions.
A group of uniformed military personnel attends the presentation of Barrel technology.
Barrel’s Commitment to Renewable Energy in Operational Contexts
During the event, Barrel showcased its modular systems for the production, storage, and distribution of electricity from renewable sources. These solutions are specifically designed to operate in remote and critical environments, ensuring efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability. Barrel’s technologies were deployed within the energy services area of the demonstration camp, seamlessly integrating with the field infrastructures set up by the Army Engineering Corps.
A Virtuous Model of Collaboration Between Defense and Industry
The initiative, which included the “VIP Day” on April 3 attended by the Chief of Defense Staff, General Luciano Portolano, featured a full program of visits, demonstrations, and presentations. Barrel, along with other selected industrial partners, contributed to the creation of a “green” camp model capable of meeting the modern logistic and operational needs of the Armed Forces, focusing on:
- Renewable energy production
- Smartgrid and nanogrid energy management systems
- Advanced energy storage solutions
- Low environmental impact technologies
Demonstration of the use of Barrel technology inside a military field tent.
A Step Toward Energy Transition in the Defense Sector
Barrel’s participation in “Smart Military Camps” is part of its broader commitment to promoting energy transition in the military sector. We believe it is essential for innovations developed in the civilian market to also find application in operational environments, where energy resilience can mean the difference between mission success and failure.
Looking Ahead
Barrel will continue to invest in research and development to make its solutions increasingly effective, scalable, and sustainable. Events like the one promoted by the Italian Defense General Staff are valuable opportunities to test technologies in real-world conditions, gather feedback, and strengthen collaboration between public institutions and the private sector.
Demonstration of the use of Barrel technology in support of military operations.
We are proud to have contributed to this important initiative and reaffirm our commitment to supporting the Italian Armed Forces in building a more secure and sustainable energy future.