In a major step forward for the energy transition of Italy’s agrovoltaic sector, the Ministry of the Environment and Energy Security (MASE) has published Directorial Decrees No. 146/2025 and No. 147/2025, updating the ranking lists linked to the selection procedure established by Ministerial Decree No. 436 of 22 December 2023. These lists form the basis for the allocation of non-repayable grants aimed at developing agrovoltaic systems under Investment 1.1 of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR).

According to MASE, these rankings lay the groundwork for the adoption of decrees granting capital contributions, financed through resources from Investment 1.1 (Agrovoltaic Development), within the framework of Mission 2 (Green Revolution and Ecological Transition) – Component 2, focused on promoting renewable energy, green hydrogen, grid modernisation, and sustainable mobility.

The agrovoltaic scheme is backed by funding of approximately €1.1 billion. Its goal is to install at least 900 MW of photovoltaic capacity in systems integrated with agricultural land.

In addition, to support understanding of the regulatory framework and respond to key questions raised during the initial implementation phase, MASE has published an updated list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), available on its official website.

Key regulatory changes

The package also includes a decree signed by Minister Gilberto Pichetto, introducing substantial amendments to the incentive framework for agrovoltaic systems, as laid out in DM 436/2023. This decree is currently under review by oversight bodies and will enter into force immediately upon publication, following approval by the Council of the European Union as part of the PNRR’s revised programming.

Notably, the revised regulations introduce greater flexibility regarding project commissioning deadlines and final expenditure reporting.

Focus on monitoring and sustainability

MASE also emphasised that supported systems must include monitoring and measuring instruments to assess parameters such as microclimate, water savings, soil fertility recovery, climate resilience, and agricultural productivity across various crop types.

Implementation status and next steps

The document outlines several milestones already achieved, including:

• The approval of technical guidelines for agrovoltaic systems, drafted by CREA, ENEA, GSE, and RSE, under the coordination of MASE’s Department of Energy.

• The launch of a public consultation in June 2022 to gather feedback from stakeholders on the draft decree.

• The adoption, on 16 May 2024, of the Operational Rules, formalised through Decree No. 233 by the Head of the Department of Energy.

• The first opening of GSE application portals, scheduled for the course of 2024.

Through this initiative, Italy reinforces its commitment to aligning renewable energy generation with agricultural activity, promoting sustainable and innovative models that enhance sector competitiveness while contributing to both national and EU climate goals.