Italian energy storage network

Why is energy storage important in Italy?

In addition, electricity storage is critical to avoid congestion in the power grid since most of the renewable production originates in Southern Italy but is consumed mostly in the north. Therefore, PNIEC also provides for the installation of new energy storage infrastructure with the aim of reaching 22.5 GW of installed storage capacity by 2030.

Does Italy need electricity storage?

As Italy’s energy mix is increasingly composed of variable renewable energy sources, electricity storage will be needed to integrate power generated by renewables into the national grid and make it available when sun and wind energy are not accessible.

What is Italy's energy storage structure?

Italy’s energy storage structure is also dominated by residential storage, which accounts for more than 80% of new installations. In December 2023, the EU greenlit Italy’s energy storage program, earmarking a hefty investment of €17.7 billion.

Are battery energy storage systems needed in Italy?

Therefore, battery energy storage systems (BESS) are needed in Italy. The Italian market for BESS is growing rapidly and currently amounts to 2.3 GW but it almost exclusively consists of residential scale systems, associated with small scale solar plants, having a capacity of less than 20 kWh.

How will Italy invest in electricity storage?

Italy will promote investments in utility scale electricity storage to reach at least 70 GWh, and worth over Euro 17 bn, in the next ten years. The new storage capacity will be acquired through tenders published by Terna, the manager of Italy’s high voltage grid. The next tender will be released in 2024.

How much will Italy's energy storage program cost in 2023?

In December 2023, the EU greenlit Italy’s energy storage program, earmarking a hefty investment of €17.7 billion. This initiative is anticipated to facilitate the construction of over 9GW/71GWh of energy storage systems (ESS).