In 2023, Italy experienced a notable 2.8% drop in electricity consumption compared to the previous year, totaling 306.1 billion kWh, according to data released by the Italian transmission grid operator, Terna. This decline coincided with a significant upswing in renewable energy production, covering 36.8% of the nation’s demand, a notable increase from the 31% in 2022.
The surge in renewable energy production, including wind power and photovoltaics, contributed to a remarkable 5.8 GW increase in new activations across all renewable sources, showcasing a robust acceleration in the development of green energy. Terna’s monthly report highlighted a shift in industrial consumption as well, with the IMCEI index indicating a 3.9% decrease in industrial consumption among 1,000 energy-intensive companies.
Examining the broader trends, the annual decline in electricity demand was influenced by significant drops in the first half of the year, followed by moderate increases from September onwards. The trend, however, was in comparison to the previous year, marked by a reduction in demand in the second half due to the energy crisis.
The supply side witnessed substantial growth in renewable production in 2023, boasting a 15.4% increase. The net balance of energy exchanged with other countries also saw a notable uptick of 19.2%, attributed to decreased exports (-24.4%) and increased imports (+15.2%). Interconnections played a pivotal role in enhancing the efficiency and security of Italy’s electricity system.
On a regional level, electricity demand fell across the country, with the North experiencing a 4% decrease, Central Italy at 2%, and the South and Islands at 0.9%. In December alone, despite having two fewer working days, electricity demand showed a positive trend, increasing by 0.8%.
The shift towards renewable energy was reflected in the December figures, with renewable sources covering 34.5% of the monthly demand. Net national production saw a breakdown with increases in wind power, photovoltaic, and hydroelectric, and decreases in thermoelectric and geothermal sources.
In summary, Italy’s electricity landscape in 2023 marked a significant transition towards renewable energy, a decline in overall consumption, and noteworthy shifts in industrial patterns, setting the stage for a sustainable energy future.
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