Photovoltaics: installed capacity in Italy exceeds 900 MW

Over 60,000 photovoltaic systems have been constructed by using “Conto Energia incentives”, totalizing more than 900 MW at the end of 2009. In July 2010, it is estimated that capacity will reach 1,200 MW

The GSE (that manages energy services) announced the results achieved at the end of 2009 by incentives for photovoltaic systems in Italy.
Based on reports submitted until January 18th. 2010, over 60,000 plants are operating in Italy, for a total capacity of about 815 MW.

However, since the GSE is informed that plants start operations a few weeks after this occurs, and considering that new reports are still being submitted, the GSE estimates that the PV capacity of systems that were operating in Italy at the end of 2009 exceeds 900 MW. It also informed that the 1,200 MW cap of photovoltaic capacity established by the “Conto Energia” incentives under the decree dated February 19th. 2007 will be reached by July 2010.

The GSE also recalls that plants that will start operations during the 14 months after this cap is reached can still receive incentives.

To be noted that in these first two years, the “Conto Energia” incentives were used mainly for the construction of small-scale systems. Commercial projects, especially large-scale plants, require long terms for their development due to existing issues regarding uncertain authorization procedures and the delayed connection to the MV and HV network, mainly in southern Italy. According to the GSE, these plants will become more relevant, especially in terms of installed capacity, from 2010.

(January 2010)