3 February 2010: The International Energy Agency (IEA) has released a report titled “Energy Policies of IEA Countries – Italy,” which evaluates both thematic policy issues such as energy efficiency and climate change, as well as sectoral policies, as it delves into renewables, electricity, natural gas, oil, coal and nuclear energies.

The report lauds achievements of the Italian Government in beginning to diversify its energy mix and promote renewables, but stresses the important challenges which lay ahead for Italian compliance with European climate and energy obligations. IEA Executive Director Nobuo Tanaka also noted that “a common theme that emerges in the IEA review is the difficulties faced by energy infrastructure providers in taking projects from the initial planning phase to completion.” Key recommendations of the report include: formulating a thorough long-term strategy for the energy sector; identifying key areas requiring improved energy infrastructure and streamline permitting for its implementation; and improving efforts to meet EU 2020 requirements, beginning with the development of a comprehensive climate strategy. [IEA Press Release] [Publication Website] [Executive Summary]