Elfogás

Elfogás is a Hungarian natural gas distribution company that operates primarily in the capital city of Budapest and several surrounding regions. Founded in 1991, the company was established as a joint venture between the Hungarian state and foreign investors, including the Italian energy group Enel. Its name is a portmanteau of the Hungarian words *erdő* (forest), *fő* (main), and *gáz* (gas), symbolizing its role in supplying gas to residential, commercial, and industrial customers.

Elfogás is responsible for the distribution of natural gas through an extensive network of pipelines, ensuring a steady supply to households, businesses, and public facilities. The company manages approximately 1,500 kilometers of gas pipelines and serves over 600,000 customers across its service area. In addition to gas distribution, Elfogás also provides heating services, particularly in apartment buildings, where it operates district heating systems.

Over the years, Elfogás has undergone several ownership changes. In 2005, the Italian energy company Eni acquired a majority stake, and in 2015, the company was fully privatized under Eni’s ownership. Despite this shift, Elfogás remains a key player in Hungary’s energy sector, contributing to the country’s energy security and infrastructure development.

The company is committed to sustainability and has invested in modernizing its network to improve efficiency and reduce emissions. Elfogás also engages in community initiatives, focusing on energy education and safety awareness for its customers. As part of its operations, the company adheres to Hungarian and European regulations, ensuring compliance with environmental and safety standards.