In the period from September 2024 to August 2025, Italy's electricity consumption has been relatively balanced between fossil and low-carbon sources. Low-carbon energy sources such as hydropower, solar, and wind collectively make up almost 44% of the electricity mix. Individual contributions are notable, with hydropower contributing around 17%, solar energy at about 13%, and wind power around 9%. The country relies on gas as the dominant fossil-based electricity source, contributing to nearly 41% of the total electricity. Net imports account for approximately 6% of the electricity consumption, likely serving as a supplement to local production. Coal and biofuels play a minor role, with both generating less than 3% each. Italy's energy mix reflects the challenges and opportunities in further reducing dependency on fossil fuels while enhancing the use of clean energy sources.
Is Electricity Growing in Italy?
Despite the global push for increased electrification and clean energy, Italy appears to be experiencing a decline in overall electricity consumption compared to historical records. The latest figures indicate a per capita electricity consumption of 4101 kWh, which is a significant decrease from the 6112 kWh per person recorded in 2006. Furthermore, low-carbon electricity generation per capita has also seen a reduction, currently at 1787 kWh, down from 2200 kWh in 2024, a drop of 414 kWh. These numbers highlight decreased utilization of sustainable energy options at a time when expanding clean energy is critical to addressing climate change and enhancing energy security. The reduction in both overall and low-carbon electricity consumption is concerning, especially given the global trend towards increased electrification and the adoption of cleaner energy technologies.
Suggestions
To increase its low-carbon electricity generation, Italy should focus on expanding its successful solar energy sector, given that solar power already contributes a sizable portion of the clean energy mix. Furthermore, Italy can draw lessons from countries with significant nuclear and solar energy production. For example, France and Slovakia generate over 60% of their electricity from nuclear power, offering models for Italy to consider nuclear expansion for a robust low-carbon energy future. Additionally, looking at regions with substantial wind energy integration, such as Denmark and Iowa with their wind generation exceeding 50%, can guide Italy in diversifying clean energy sources. By investing in solar and nuclear infrastructure, Italy can bolster its clean electricity capabilities, ensuring a sustainable and resilient energy-future and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
History
Historically, Italy's shift towards low-carbon electricity has seen significant fluctuations. In the late 1970s and early 1990s, bursts of hydropower expansion added to clean electricity capacity; however, the late 1980s witnessed a significant setback in nuclear power with an 8.6 TWh reduction in 1987, which remains a critical point in Italy's energy history. The 2000s and 2010s experienced recurring growth spurts and declines in hydropower, coupled with a promising rise of solar energy in the early 2010s. Notable are the decreases in hydroelectric output in 2015 and again in recent years with a reduction of 17 TWh in 2022 followed by a partial recovery and then another drop in 2025. The recent decline in biofuels generation marks another shift away from certain low-carbon options, suggesting a need for strategic planning in broader energy transitions. Expanding solar and reconsidering the potential of nuclear energy could effectively shape Italy's path forward for a robust and sustainable electricity future.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.