Italy opens Conto Energia early-exit window with EU-module mandate

Italy has published rules for a voluntary mechanism letting PV plants under the first four Conto Energia schemes leave their feed-in incentives before the original contract term ends. Up to 10 GW of capacity is eligible. Opt-out is available from 2028 onward.

The condition for exit is full repowering with EU-manufactured modules, completed by 31 December 2030. Projects must also meet minimum energy-yield thresholds and comply with dedicated rules for selling the resulting electricity. The structure effectively trades remaining subsidy entitlement for a modernised, merchant or contracted revenue stack.

The policy lands as Italian solar developers face ageing fleets and tightening grid connection queues. A clear repowering pathway with a module-origin requirement aligns with broader EU industrial policy goals. Whether the 10 GW ceiling binds will depend on how many operators judge the subsidy sacrifice acceptable against current power prices in the Italian zone.