In the first half of 2025, Italy’s solar market experienced a significant downturn, with installations dropping by 33 percent compared to the previous year. According to data from the industry group Italia Solare, only 113,465 new photovoltaic systems were connected to the grid, contributing 2,809 megawatts of new capacity, which is a 16 percent decline year-on-year. The slowdown is particularly evident in the rooftop solar segment, reflecting broader issues like regulatory uncertainty and a lack of investment support, despite steady growth in large-scale solar parks.
The installation of new rooftop solar systems has sharply declined, with only 106,562 systems completed in the first half of this year, down 31 percent from 2024. The commercial sector also faced challenges, with 804 megawatts of capacity installed, reflecting a 32 percent drop. This struggle contrasts with the 12 percent growth seen in large-scale ground-mounted solar plants, which added 1,319 megawatts from 307 new systems. The ongoing decline in rooftop solar can be partially attributed to the easing energy crisis that followed high electricity prices prompted by geopolitical tensions, leading to the expiration of crucial support schemes.
Despite the stalled residential solar market, experts like Rocco Viscontini, President of Italia Solare, emphasize the ongoing growth in large-scale solar initiatives, which are primarily driven by national tenders. Nevertheless, he urges the need for a robust strategy to revitalize the residential segment, including stable tax incentives and clearer regulations for self-consumption initiatives. As the country navigates the pivotal transition to renewable energy, it is essential to maintain momentum and provide support for small-scale solar installations, to ensure that the progress made thus far does not falter.