In the first months of 2011, Italy conquered the world leadership of the photovoltaic market in terms of new installed power, surpassing even Germany, but in the same period the sector generated only 3% of the total energy produced in Italy. This is what emerges from the report "Costs and benefits of photovoltaics", elaborated by Gifi-Anie and presented this morning in Milan.
To date, there are over 11 MWp connected to the national electricity grid, thanks to investments of 40 billion euros each year (mainly coming from private individuals) which have led to the creation of over 100 new jobs and about 20 direct employees with an average age of less than 35 years. In 2010 alone, state coffers benefited from VAT revenues of 4 billion euros. Government incentives have had a significant impact on the development of the sector, favoring the affirmation of a complete industrial chain with producers, distributors and integrators of photovoltaic systems, as well as designers and installers.
In 2010, according to estimates by Gifi-Anie, photovoltaics produced a turnover of approximately 40 billion euros, equal to 2,5% of the national GDP. “The sector – explained Valerio Natalizia, president of Gifi-Anie – is growing rapidly with numerous benefits for the entire country system: private investments for the national economy, reduction of the electricity bill, reduction of harmful emissions and greater energy independence from precarious geopolitical balances”.
