Energy Policy Review: Italy 2023
Overview
- Scope: The International Energy Agency (IEA) reviews Italy's energy policies comprehensively, covering oil, gas, coal, renewables, electricity markets, energy efficiency, and more.
- Member Status: Italy is a founding member of the IEA and an active participant in international energy security and clean energy transitions.
Recent Achievements
- Reduction in Russian Gas Imports: Italy has significantly reduced its reliance on Russian gas imports by diversifying its natural gas sources and supply routes.
- Energy Efficiency Measures: Italy is implementing measures to improve the energy efficiency of residential and commercial buildings, leading to a decline in energy consumption. By 2030, the building sector is expected to contribute 60% of annual energy savings.
- Climate Ambitions: Italy has endorsed the EU-wide goal of achieving climate neutrality by 2050 and is on track to meet its national targets for emissions reductions and energy efficiency.
Challenges
- Renewable Energy Installation Gap: Despite strong investor interest, Italy is experiencing a gap between actual and desired renewable energy installations.
- Infrastructure: There is a similar gap in relation to distribution and transmission infrastructure, which are essential for an efficient and integrated electricity system.
- Permitting Procedures: Simplifying and accelerating permitting procedures could help close these gaps. Encouraging legislative steps were taken in 2021, and there have been signs of expedited permitting for new projects.
Recommendations
- Regulatory Implementation: Full adoption of the regulatory implementation framework would be a valuable and impactful next step.
- Energy System Transformation: Recommendations aim to accelerate Italy's energy system transformation while ensuring energy supplies remain affordable and secure.
Conclusion
Dr. Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the IEA, expresses gratitude for Italy's leadership in international efforts to modernize power systems and encourages the adoption of the report's recommendations to achieve these goals.
