Wind energy in Italy is growing steadily, enhancing its power mix

Italy’s wind energy sector continues to expand, with a growing focus on both onshore and offshore wind. The country has set ambitious renewable energy targets, and recent policy changes indicate strong government support for further wind energy development.

Installed capacity and growth

• Total capacity: As of mid-2024, Italy’s total wind energy capacity reached 11.9 GW, reflecting steady growth in recent years. Wind power remains a key part of Italy’s renewable energy mix, contributing significantly to electricity generation.
• Onshore wind: Italy installed 302 MW of new onshore wind capacity in the first half of 2024, bringing its total onshore wind capacity to 11.6 GW. The country is on track to exceed expectations for 400 MW of new onshore wind capacity by the end of the year.
• Offshore wind: Italy’s offshore wind sector remains in the early stages of development, with only 13 MW currently installed. However, the government has recently approved new offshore wind auctions, signaling potential growth in the sector.

Government ambitions

• 2030 target: Italy has set a target of 20 GW of total wind energy capacity by 2030, including a significant share from offshore wind projects. This goal aligns with Italy’s broader strategy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and accelerate the transition to renewable energy.
• 2050 net-zero target: By 2050, Italy aims to achieve carbon neutrality, with wind power playing a key role in reducing emissions and decarbonizing the energy sector.

Current and upcoming projects

• Adriatic Offshore Wind Project – Italy’s first large-scale offshore wind farm, with a planned capacity of 400 MW. This project will help establish offshore wind as a viable energy source in Italy.
• Puglia Offshore Wind Farm – A 500 MW offshore wind project off the southeastern coast, set to begin construction in the mid-2020s.
• Onshore Wind Expansion in Sicily and Sardinia – The Sicily Wind Farm and Sardinia Wind Cluster will add hundreds of megawatts to Italy’s wind energy portfolio.
• New Wind Energy Auction Rounds – Italy’s government is set to auction 3.8 GW of offshore wind capacity under the FER 2 scheme in late 2024.

Recent developments

• Wind energy auctions: Italy held a renewable energy auction in 2024, awarding 98 MW of new onshore wind capacity. Additional auctions are expected in the second half of the year.
• Collaborations with European partners: Italy is collaborating with France and Spain to develop a regional offshore wind energy market in the Mediterranean, reducing costs and improving energy distribution.
• Floating wind technology: Italy is investing in floating wind projects, including the MedWind Project, which will test floating wind turbines in deeper waters. This technology is expected to play a key role in future offshore wind expansion.

With 11.9 GW of total wind capacity as of mid-2024, including 11.6 GW of onshore wind, Italy remains committed to expanding its wind energy sector. While offshore wind is still developing, new auctions and policy support are paving the way for large-scale projects.

Italy’s goal of 20 GW of wind energy by 2030 and its commitment to carbon neutrality by 2050 reflect its dedication to renewable energy growth. With new projects, investments, and European collaborations, Italy is well-positioned to become a key player in the Mediterranean wind energy market.

This information is updated in March 2025

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