Glossary
Bio Energy
Renewable energy produced from organic matter, such as agricultural waste, crops, or animal manure, through processes like combustion or anaerobic digestion.
Example:
The use of bio energy is rapidly increasing in Italy, converting organic waste into a sustainable power source.
Carbon Emissions
The release of carbon compounds, primarily carbon dioxide, into the atmosphere, largely from the burning of fossil fuels, contributing to climate change.
Example:
Both Italy and the USA are working to reduce their carbon emissions to combat global warming.
Conto Energia
An Italian incentive program that provided financial support and feed-in tariffs to encourage investment in solar photovoltaic systems.
Example:
The Conto Energia program played a crucial role in boosting the rapid expansion of solar power installations across Italy.
Fossil Fuels
Non-renewable energy sources formed from the remains of ancient organisms, including petroleum, natural gas, and coal.
Example:
Despite a push for renewables, Italy still heavily depends on fossil fuels for a large portion of its energy needs.
Geothermal Energy
Energy derived from the heat within the Earth's core, typically harnessed by tapping into underground reservoirs of hot water or steam.
Example:
Italy is a significant global producer of geothermal energy, with key facilities located in Central Italy, near Pisa.
Global Warming
The long-term heating of Earth's climate system observed since the pre-industrial period (between 1850 and 1900) due to human activities, primarily fossil fuel burning, which increases heat-trapping greenhouse gas levels in Earth's atmosphere.
Example:
Addressing global warming requires international cooperation and a shift towards sustainable energy practices.
High Electricity Prices (Italy)
The elevated cost of electricity for consumers and businesses in Italy, significantly higher than the EU average, primarily due to import dependence and incentive costs.
Example:
Despite advancements in renewables, high electricity prices remain a challenge for Italian households and industries.
Hydroelectricity
Electricity generated by harnessing the kinetic energy of flowing water, typically through turbines in dams.
Example:
Italy utilizes hydroelectricity from plants located in its mountainous regions like the Alps and Apennines.
Imported Energy
Energy resources, such as petroleum or natural gas, that a country purchases from other nations due to insufficient domestic production.
Example:
Italy's reliance on imported energy means that global oil price fluctuations can significantly impact its economy.
Italy's Limited Natural Resources
A characteristic of Italy's geology, indicating a scarcity of significant domestic deposits of key energy resources like iron, coal, and oil.
Example:
Due to Italy's limited natural resources, the country must look abroad to meet most of its energy demands.
Italy's Nuclear Power Stance
Italy's national policy of not utilizing nuclear power for electricity generation, a decision made after referendums.
Example:
Unlike some neighboring European countries, Italy's nuclear power stance means it does not rely on atomic energy.
Leading Producer Minerals (Italy)
Specific non-energy mineral resources where Italy holds a significant global production position, including pumice, pozzolana, feldspar, and marble.
Example:
Italy is renowned for its beautiful sculptures, often crafted from marble, one of its leading producer minerals.
National Energy Strategy (NES)
Italy's comprehensive long-term plan committing to climate and clean energy goals, including specific targets for renewable energy consumption and reducing energy price gaps by 2030.
Example:
A key objective of the National Energy Strategy (NES) is to achieve 55% renewable energy in electricity consumption by 2030.
National Energy and Climate Plans (2021-2030)
Strategic documents outlining Italy's commitments and actions to achieve climate and energy targets set by the European Union for the period up to 2030.
Example:
The National Energy and Climate Plans (2021-2030) include ambitious goals for phasing out coal power plants in Italy.
Natural Gas (Italy)
A fossil fuel with moderate reserves found within Italy, primarily in the Po Valley and Adriatic Sea, contributing to domestic energy supply.
Example:
While Italy imports much of its energy, its natural gas reserves in the Po Valley offer a partial domestic source.
Renewable Energy
Energy derived from natural processes that are continuously replenished, such as solar, wind, hydro, geothermal, and bioenergy.
Example:
Italy is making significant investments in renewable energy sources to reduce its dependence on imported fossil fuels.
Solar Power
Electricity generated from sunlight, often using photovoltaic panels or concentrated solar thermal systems.
Example:
Thanks to abundant sunshine, solar power is a major contributor to Italy's renewable energy mix, ranking high globally.
Wind Power
Electricity generated by converting the kinetic energy of wind into mechanical energy using wind turbines.
Example:
While less developed than solar, wind power is another renewable source Italy is investing in, particularly in coastal and southern regions.