Italy's Energy System Relies Heavily on Natural Gas Amid Growing Demand

Natural gas is a crucial component of Italy's energy system, according to Pier Lorenzo Dell'Orco, chairman of Proxigas. In a recent hearing with the Regulatory Authority for Energy, Networks and the Environment (ARERA), Dell'Orco emphasized that regulation should support the development of the sector to ensure efficiency and decarbonisation.

The Italian energy system is heavily reliant on natural gas, which accounts for 50% of residential energy requirements and provides heating for around 70% of homes. Additionally, natural gas plays a significant role in thermoelectric power generation, with gas consumption rising by 18% in July 2026 compared to the same month the previous year.

Dell'Orco also highlighted the importance of integrating more sustainable energy carriers into the existing infrastructure. He noted that biomethane, hydrogen, and gases with reduced or zero CO₂ content are key to guiding the evolution of the energy system towards a just energy transition.