Adolfo Urso, Italy’s minister in charge of enterprises and Made in Italy products, indicated that the country could achieve substantial gas independence in a relatively short window, with much of the progress tied to diversifying import sources. This assessment was shared with a regional news portal. IlSussidario.net.
Urso noted notable strides in reducing reliance on single suppliers, pointing to new infrastructure and storage strategies as key factors. A newly commissioned LNG receiving terminal in Piombino has begun operations, while the utilization rate of national gas storage facilities has reached high levels, signaling stronger resilience against supply shocks. These developments are presented as concrete steps toward greater energy diversification and security. (IlSussidario.net)
Historical data shows a sharp shift in import composition, with Russia accounting for about 40 percent of Italy’s gas in 2021, declining to roughly 16 percent in 2022. Urso framed this as part of Rome’s long‑term objective to lessen exposure to Russian resources, emphasizing policy and market measures that support diversification and resilience. (IlSussidario.net)
The government had previously signaled an intention to phase out Russian gas entirely by mid‑2024. Ongoing diversification progress, according to Urso, is creating a path to achieving substantial independence over the coming year while maintaining steady energy supplies for households and industry. (IlSussidario.net)
Beyond immediate national concerns, European energy experts have been examining broader regional dynamics. Alexander Frolov, vice president of the National Energy Institute, recently warned that the European energy crisis could persist even as other global disruptions ease. He highlighted a scenario in which European demand depends heavily on external actors, including shifts from key economies, which could shape prices and policy responses across the continent. (IlSussidario.net)
Recent discussions across Europe have also touched on the role of the United States in shaping gas availability and pricing. Analysts point to a complex web of supply contracts, storage strategies, and geopolitical considerations that influence how European countries secure gas while steering toward greater energy independence. (IlSussidario.net)