Four factors determine its future construction industrythe value of which, at the European level, from about 2 trillion. euros today, it is expected to increase to almost 3 trillion. euros by 2035, as reported by the Group’s Authorized Advisor GEK TERNAPetros Suretis, at the 8th Athens Investment Forum.
As explained by the Advisor of the GEK TERNA Group, Petros Suretis, the course of the construction industry will be based mainly on four strategic axes, with the next decade being a period of structural transformation dominated by the energy transition, climate change and Artificial Intelligence.
First, the Green Transition and the European Green Deal, which mobilize investments of over 1 trillion. euros by 2030 for the energy upgrade of 35 million buildings and the development of 300 GW of RES, with an annual project growth rate of approximately 2.5%.
Second, Infrastructure Upgrade and Resilience. Through programs such as the Connecting Europe Facility and InvestEU, it is sought to strengthen the connectivity and resilience of European networks, attracting investments of more than 500 billion euros.
Third, Digital Transformation. BIM technology, Artificial Intelligence, the use of drones and 3D printing allow cost reductions of up to 20% and delivery times of up to 30%.
Fourth, addressing the shortage of 1.3 million skilled workers, which necessitates automation, standardization and the adoption of new collaboration models.
“For us, as concessionaires, builders and operators of motorways, sustainability, technology and innovation are a daily practice. The solar parks and hybrid charging stations operating today in our projects are tangible steps towards zero-emission infrastructure,” he added.
Mr. Suretis also emphasized that the utilization of Artificial Intelligence and big data allows infrastructure groups not only to intervene, but to predict potential project vulnerabilities in time, providing services worthy of the cost borne by the user. However, to achieve this goal, the role of the State is decisive, as traffic is currently the biggest problem facing the country’s road infrastructure. “Measures are needed to decongest Kifisos Avenue, such as restricting the traffic of heavy vehicles, speeding up the procedures for the implementation of the extension of Kymi Avenue – where there is already a contractor – and activating the standard proposals,” he said.
“Our strategy is clear: the infrastructures of the future will be green, smart and durable. GEK TERNA, with consistency and vision, invests in projects that turn sustainability into a development force, creating pillars of security, innovation and quality of life for the Europe of 2030”, he concluded.