Elementi per la pianificazione di una transizione energetica sostenibile in Italia

Starting from analysing the Italian strategy for the ecological transition, this paper faces the sustainability of energy planning. While the need to decarbonise our economy is a matter of fact, the strategy to reach the carbon neutrality objective in 2050 must be more convincing. In particular, two aspects of renewable energy transition are analysed in this paper: spatial energy density and raw material consumption. The comparison between traditional fossil energy sources and renewable ones (in particular, solar and biomass energy), and related storage capacity demand through batteries or hydrogen generation, shows a much greater impact of the latter on land and raw materials consumption. The substantial implications reverberate on the techno-economical, environmental, social and political levels. The paper concludes with suggestions on integrating energy planning strategy with more sustainable solutions, including nuclear power plants.