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Italy Sees Zero Electricity Prices for Six Hours on May Day

Low demand during the public holiday and high renewable output resulted in free electricity, raising concerns about grid challenges and subsidy structures.

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Overview

  • For six hours on May 1, 2025, electricity prices in Italy dropped to zero due to low demand and high renewable energy production, as confirmed by GME data.
  • The event was driven by Italy's installed renewable capacity of 13 GW wind and 38 GW solar, which exceeded the holiday's reduced peak demand of 22 GW.
  • Renewable energy producers will still receive subsidies funded through consumer bills, despite the zero market price.
  • Analysts warn that oversupply events highlight the need for energy storage systems and grid upgrades to ensure the stability of the energy transition.
  • Electricity prices are expected to rebound later in the day, peaking at €141/MWh around 9 PM, underlining the volatility of Italy's energy market.