In Italy, electricity generation over the past year, from August 2024 to July 2025, has presented a diverse energy mix. Fossil sources, which together comprise gas, coal, and other fossil fuels, accounted for just over 45% of the total electricity profile, with gas taking up the lion's share at almost 42%. In sharp contrast, low-carbon electricity, including sources like hydropower, solar, wind, and biofuels, contributed a nearly equal share of the total, making up close to 42% of the electricity basket. Hydropower alone provided nearly 17%, solar energy accounted for a substantial 12%, and wind power contributed more than 8%. Despite relying on a variety of energy sources, including net imports which formed over 7% of the energy portfolio, Italy is at a pivotal juncture where increasing the share of clean energy could vastly reshape its energy landscape.
Is Electricity Growing in Italy?
Recent trends reveal a worrying decline in electricity consumption in Italy, with 2025 marking a significant decrease from historic highs. Per capita electricity consumption has dropped to 3,908 kWh, significantly down by 2,204 kWh from the peak of 6,112 kWh experienced in 2006. This stark contrast is echoed in the realm of low-carbon electricity, with the latest figure of 1,623 kWh per person reflecting a decrease of 578 kWh compared to the previous high in 2024. These declines underscore a critical need for reinvigoration in both total and low-carbon electricity generation as the country braces for increasing energy demand driven by electrification and technological advancements.
Suggestions
To bolster low-carbon electricity generation, Italy could leverage its existing prowess in solar energy. Expanding solar infrastructure could greatly enhance Italy's clean energy capacity. Learning from successful regions, such as Greece where solar power contributes to 25% of the mix and Lebanon with a remarkable 31%, could provide valuable insights into further implementing and scaling solar technologies. Investment in nuclear energy is also recommended, given its substantial success in countries like France and Slovakia, where nuclear contributes to about 69% and 64% of the electricity generation, respectively. Adopting a robust blend of solar and nuclear energy could position Italy as a leader in sustainable electricity generation and significantly reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.
History
Historically, Italy's journey with low-carbon electricity has experienced ups and downs, notably marked by changes in hydropower and nuclear energy outputs. The late 20th century saw expansions in hydroelectric output, such as the addition of 12 TWh in 1977 and over 10 TWh in 1991. However, these highs have been tempered by significant declines, notably in 2015 where hydroelectric output decreased by over 13 TWh, and again recently in 2025 with a drop of over 12 TWh. The phase-out of nuclear energy in 1987 led to a significant decline of 8.6 TWh, a move that stands as a critical juncture in Italy’s energy history. The solar boom in the early 2010s adds a notable highlight, with considerable contributions of approximately 9 TWh and 8 TWh in 2011 and 2012, respectively, signifying strong potential for future energy reforms. The fluctuation in these sectors points to the need for a strategic focus on expanding Italy’s low-carbon capacities, ensuring resilience and sustainability.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.