Adopts €550 million aid schemes to accelerate the transition to a net-zero economy

In 2023, the European Commission approved two Italian schemes under the Temporary Crisis and Transition Framework to accelerate the transition to a net-zero economy and enhance energy diversification. These initiatives support green hydrogen production and electrolyser manufacturing, reinforcing Italy’s shift toward clean energy and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The first scheme, approved on 3 April 2023, allocates €450 million to support renewable hydrogen production in brownfield industrial areas, funded through the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF). It provides direct grants of up to €20 million per project, covering up to 100 per cent of eligible investment costs. Grants will be awarded through a competitive bidding process, supporting expenses related to infrastructure, equipment, software, and design.

The second scheme, approved on 9 October 2023, designates €100 million to support electrolyser production. Aid is provided as direct grants and is open to all sectors except financial institutions.

Both schemes will run until 31 December 2025.

• Type:

  • Promotion and facilitation (Investment incentives)

• Industry:

  • Services (Electricity, gas, steam and air conditioning supply)

• Sources:

  • European Commission, State aid: Commission approves €100 million Italian scheme to support the production of electrolysers to foster the transition to a net-zero economy, https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_23_4730, 09 Oct 2023
  • European Commission, State aid: Commission approves €450 million Italian scheme to support the production of renewable hydrogen to foster the transition to a net-zero economy, https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_23_2044, 03 Apr 2023