Challenges of Biogas in Italy's PNRR and Energy Transition Goals

The Italian biogas sector, crucial for energy transition, faces challenges under the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR). The GSE manages €1.923 billion for biogas, aiming to increase production and reduce gas dependency. However, current biogas output is only 0.318 million tons of oil equivalent, significantly below the 2030 target of 5 billion cubic meters per year. The PNRR's original targets are being revised due to slow progress, with only 25 of 551 planned plants operational, indicating a disconnect between goals and actionable outcomes.

Published Mar 20, 2026

The Italian biogas sector is pivotal for energy transition, with significant funding from the PNRR. Managed by the GSE with €1.923 billion, the sector aims to enhance production and cut gas imports. However, in 2024, biogas production is just 0.318 million tons of oil equivalent, representing 0.2% of national energy needs, far from the 2030 target of 5 billion cubic meters.

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The PNRR's goal of establishing 2.3 billion cubic meters by June 2026 has been revised due to slow implementation, with only 25 of 551 planned facilities operational. Economic analyses suggest that without public policies, biogas cannot compete with fossil gas, highlighting the need for sound incentive frameworks.