The first half of 2024 in Italy was marked by an important achievement in the field of energy transition.
Namely, as shown by the data of the company Terna, which manages the national transmission networkelectricity production from renewable sources exceeded production from fossil fuels.
This is the first time something like that has happened in six months. Renewable sources covered 43.8% of demand – and this is a historical record on a half-yearly basis.
Compared to the same period last year, renewable sources produced 27.3% more electricity, primarily thanks to hydroelectric power plants in the north of the country. These plants achieved record results, providing the Italian population and industry with almost 26 billion kilowatt-hours, which is 65% more than from January to June of the previous year.
On the other hand, fossil fuels – responsible for warming the planet – experienced a 19% drop. The most significant decrease was the production in coal-fired thermal power plants.
Part of the energy needs is met from imports and exchange with foreign countries.
During the observed period, the operating capacity of renewable sources increased by 3,961 megawatts, including solar power plants with a capacity of 3,341 megawatts. This year’s progress in the energy transition is higher by 1,074 megawatts compared to 2023.
Italy, as of June, has 46,321 megawatts of renewable resources.
Last month, renewable sources covered more than half of electricity consumption (52.5%), and hydropower plants (46.8%) contributed the most, followed by solar power plants (30.8%) and wind farms (10%), according to Terna.
This year’s achievements are just one step closer to the revised national goal that by the end of the decade Italy will get 63% of its electricity from renewable sources. The country then plans to reach carbon neutrality by the middle of the century.
E2 portal (Climate 101)
Source: www.e2.rs
