Decarbonizing Italy’s Electricity: the role of Solar Photovoltaics in the commercial and industrial sector

Italy’s commercial and industrial consumers account for 56% of national electricity demand, led by commercial services (38%), iron and steel production (7%), and food and beverage (6%). In 2023, renewables generated 45% of Italy’s electricity, with solar and wind contributing 21%.
Solar photovoltaic installations have grown rapidly, particularly in the commercial and industrial sector, which expanded from 650 megawatts in 2020 to 5.2 gigawatts by 2023. This growth is driven by ambitious targets—79 gigawatts of photovoltaic capacity by 2030—rising energy prices, and supportive policies like simplified permitting and fiscal incentives. Although regulatory barriers, especially around land use and approvals for large projects, remain challenges, this sector is expected to lead Italy’s photovoltaic growth, with 6.7 gigawatts projected for 2024, nearly half from commercial and industrial installations. 
This conference session will explore key trends, regulatory dynamics, and the future role of solar photovoltaics in driving Italy’s energy transition in the commercial and industrial sector.