In 2025, Italy's electricity consumption is noticeably varied, with a distinctive balance between fossil fuels and low-carbon energy sources. Fossil energy accounts for a significant portion, with gas making up close to 38% and coal slightly under 3%, cumulatively around 41%. On the cleaner side, Italy shows a commitment to low-carbon energy, generating about 35% from these sources, which includes nearly 13% from solar power, around 12% from hydropower, and approximately 8% from wind. Net imports also play a crucial role, constituting nearly 19% of Italy’s electricity needs. The country's energy landscape reflects a mix of traditional fossil dependency and a commendable share of low-carbon sources.
Data sources used on this page include ENTSOE, Eurostat, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Italy?
However, the electricity consumption outlook in Italy is not especially encouraging. In 2025, per capita electricity consumption has declined from its peak levels in 2006, dropping by approximately 1,556 kWh/person to 4,556 kWh/person. Similarly, low-carbon electricity generation has decreased to 1,606 kWh/person, a reduction of 595 kWh/person from its previous high in 2024. This backpedaling poses a concern, especially considering the broader global push toward boosting clean energy generation to meet future demands and tackle climate change. The figures suggest a worrying stagnation, necessitating a renewed focus on expanding low-carbon electricity sources to reverse this downturn and foster sustainable growth.
Suggestions
To enhance its low-carbon electricity generation, Italy should consider scaling up its existing solar infrastructure, given its significant contribution to the current energy mix. Moreover, Italy could draw inspiration from regions like California and Nevada, where solar power constitutes 29% and 33% of their electricity generation, respectively. The strong contributions from nuclear power in several European countries, such as France where nuclear makes up 70% of the electricity mix, and Slovakia at 66%, provide a robust case for Italy to diversify its clean energy sources by investing in nuclear energy alongside solar expansion. This combined approach would not only potentially reduce reliance on fossil fuels but also stabilize electricity supply even when weather-dependent sources fluctuate.
History
Historically, Italy's low-carbon electricity generation has experienced notable fluctuations. In the late 20th century, there was a significant reduction in nuclear electricity generation by over 8 TWh in 1987, adversely affecting the low-carbon portfolio. Conversely, solar power emerged quite strongly, especially in 2011 and 2012, contributing about 9 TWh and 8 TWh consecutively. The hydroelectric sector has seen both periods of decline and growth, with substantial increases in years like 1977, 1991, 2008, and recent years like 2023. Decreases, particularly in 2022 and 2025, highlight the volatility and reliance on hydropower's environmental conditions. The significant fluctuations reveal a historical inconsistency that underscores the need for a balanced and resilient low-carbon strategy, prioritizing reliable sources like solar and nuclear to secure Italy’s clean energy future.
