Italy's proposed €1.2 billion scheme to support investments for the deployment of solar PV panels in the agricultural sector under its €191.5 billion Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF) has secured green light from the European Commission (EC).
Through the scheme, Italy will offer direct grants covering up to 90% of the eligible investment costs depending on the PV capacity installed. It will support agricultural, breeding and agro-industrial companies to invest in solar panels to benefit the environment and improve the sector's competitiveness. The scheme will run through June 30, 2026.
According to the EC, the scheme will contribute to the European Union's (EU) strategic objectives relating to the EU Green Deal, by moving away from fossil fuel use. Its assessment found an incentive effect for end users to adopt solar power which they wouldn't have opted for in the absence of the aid.
"This €1.2 billion scheme approved today will contribute to reaching Italy's climate objectives by encouraging operators in the agricultural sector, such as farmers and processing companies, to use renewable energy," said Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice-President of the European Commission and in charge of competition policy. Adding, "Not only the measure will contribute to EU Green Deal objectives, but it will also support the economic development of rural areas in Italy, while limiting possible distortions of competition."
Back in March 2022, the Italian Ministry of Agricultural, Food and Forestry Policies (MiPAAF) had announced €1.5 billion in subsidies for 375 MW solar PV capacity to be installed for agricultural, livestock and agro-industrial sectors as it aimed to discourage use of land for solar power, under a scheme called Parco Agrisolare. It was subject to the EC's clearance (see €1.5 Billion Italian Subsidy For Agri-PV).
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