In 2025, Italy's electricity consumption consists largely of fossil and low-carbon sources, with close shares between the two. Fossil energy contributes just over 43% to the mix, with natural gas being the dominant fossil source at about 39%. In comparison, low-carbon energy makes up close to 41% of the electricity generation, with solar energy leading as a significant clean source at 14%, followed by hydropower at slightly more than 13%. Wind and biofuels offer additional contributions at around 7% and 5%, respectively. Net imports, which might include a mix of fossil and low-carbon electricity, supply around 15% of Italy's electricity needs, easing some pressure on domestic generation.
Data sources used on this page include ENTSOE, Eurostat, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Italy?
Despite the need to accelerate clean electricity growth to combat climate change and the impacts of fossil fuels, Italy's overall electricity consumption is not currently on the rise. The country records a substantial decrease in electricity consumption from a historic peak, sitting at 5352 kWh per person in 2025, which is significantly below the 6112 kWh per person recorded in 2006. Low-carbon electricity generation also shows a slight dip, with the latest figures at 2177 kWh per person, a small reduction from the previous year's record of 2202 kWh per person. This stagnation in growth highlights the challenges Italy faces in transitioning to a more sustainable and robust energy structure.
Suggestions
To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Italy should look to expand its solar capacity further, given its already significant contribution. Italy can draw inspiration from countries and regions that have successfully implemented widespread solar and nuclear energy. North Macedonia offers a notable example in solar energy, while countries like France and Slovakia demonstrate that nuclear power can make a substantial contribution to clean energy generation, with nuclear participation exceeding 60% in these regions. Similarly, Denmark leads with wind energy, boasting 60% electricity generation from this clean source. Learning from these examples, Italy can implement policies to enhance investment and development in solar and potentially nuclear power to achieve a more substantial low-carbon electricity landscape.
History
Throughout its history, Italy has seen various shifts in low-carbon electricity generation, marked by both progress and setbacks. In the late 20th century, the country experienced significant changes, including a decrease in nuclear electricity generation in 1987. The early 21st century saw fluctuations in hydropower contributions, with significant declines recorded in 2002 and 2005 but substantial increases in subsequent years, like 2008 and 2009. The last decade saw impressive gains in solar electricity generation, especially during 2011 and 2012, with additional increases in 2025. Italy must learn from these fluctuations and endeavor to establish a stable and reliable low-carbon energy regime, critically considering the expansion of nuclear and solar power.
