EU Commission backs Italy’s expanded photovoltaic investment in agriculture

Simona Mazzeo
Credit: REUTERS/Yara Nardi

Brussels (The Brussels Morning Newspaper) – The EU Commission approved an amendment to the Italian State aid scheme under the Recovery and Resilience Facility to fund investments in photovoltaic panels in the agricultural sector.

How Will the Increased Budget Support Photovoltaic Investments?

The European Commission has consented, under EU State aid rules, to an amendment to an Italian scheme made known through the Recovery and Resilience Facility (‘RRF’) to sponsor investments in photovoltaic panels in the agricultural sector.

What Is the Timeline for Italy’s Agricultural Solar Project?

The scheme was originally endorsed by the EU Commission in July 2022, and its amendment in June 2023. The scheme seeks to support agricultural, breeding and agro-industrial firms to invest in the use of renewable energy. The project will run until 31 December 2026. Italy reported one amendment to the project, namely a budget boost of €785 million, bringing the overall budget of the scheme to €1.6 billion.

Why Is the Scheme Crucial for Sustainable Agricultural Growth?

The EU Commission evaluated the amended scheme under the EU State aid rules, in special, Article 107(3)(c) of the Treaty on the Functioning of the EU, which authorises Member States to back the development of certain economic movements under certain conditions, and the Guidelines for State aid in the agricultural and forestry sectors and in rural locations. The EU Commission discovered that the amended scheme remains essential, appropriate and proportionate to assure sustainable growth of the agricultural sector. On this basis, the EU Commission approved the scheme under EU State aid rules

What Are the Expected Benefits for the Agricultural Sector?

The Commission concluded that the scheme will Facilitate the growth of certain economic activities, in particular the investment in photovoltaic panels in the agricultural sector. Has a limited impact on competition and trade within the EU. It is necessary and proper to ensure the sustainable growth of the agricultural sector. It is proportionate, as any adverse effect on competition and trade in the EU will be determined given the size of the projects, the aid amounts and the elements of the sector.

Moreover, It will improve the competitiveness of the agricultural sector and have favourable effects on climate, as it enables operators to use renewable energy instead of fossil one. In addition, the action is in line with the EU’s rural development objectives and the EU’s strategic purposes relating to the green transition.

About Us

Brussels Morning is a daily online newspaper based in Belgium. BM publishes unique and independent coverage on international and European affairs. With a Europe-wide perspective, BM covers policies and politics of the EU, significant Member State developments, and looks at the international agenda with a European perspective.
Share This Article
Follow:
Simona Mazzeo is a journalist at Brussels Morning News. She is covering European Parliament, European Council, European Commission & Italy News. She is a law graduate and lawyer residing in Agropoli, has carved out a multifaceted career dedicated to justice and social advocacy. She actively serves as a delegated councilor for the Equal Opportunities Committee of the Bar Association of Vallo della Lucania, championing fair and equal representation within the legal system. Recognized for her expertise and empathy, Simona is qualified for registration in the list of Special Curators of minors in civil and criminal matters at the Court of Vallo della Lucania, ensuring the rights and interests of vulnerable children are protected throughout legal proceedings. Beyond her legal practice, Simona demonstrates a strong commitment to social causes. She is a founding member of the Free Lawyer Movement, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing legal assistance to those who cannot afford it. Additionally, she leverages her knowledge and passion for social justice as a non-professional journalist, contributing insightful and informative pieces on relevant legal and societal issues. Through her diverse endeavors, Simona Mazzeo exemplifies dedication to legal excellence, social responsibility, and a fervent belief in equal access to justice for all.
The Brussels Morning Newspaper Logo

Subscribe for Latest Updates