Sardinia Can Become 100% Renewable: Here's How

The energy transition in Sardinia is not only desirable: it is technically feasible, economically advantageous, and environmentally essential.

This is confirmed by the study titled "**Analysis of Possible Pathways for the Energy Transition in Sardinia", carried out by Politecnico di Milano, the University of Cagliari, and the University of Padua, commissioned by Coordinamento FREE in collaboration with the Italian Biogas Consortium and Italia Solare.

The report provides a detailed analysis of the prospects for an island fully powered by renewable sources in the electricity sector—without resorting to new gas power plants or fossil infrastructure.

With an intelligent mix of solar, wind, and storage systems, Sardinia can meet its electricity demand, reduce emissions, create economic value, and lower energy costs for both citizens and businesses.

The Model: "FER100%" Scenario by 2030

The study uses the NEMeSI energy model (National Energy Modelling System for Italy) developed by Politecnico di Milano.

In the reference scenario, Sardinia's annual electricity demand in 2030 is projected to reach around 8.0 TWh. To meet this entirely through renewable sources, the study outlines the following:

• 7 GW of solar PV, with over two-thirds from large utility-scale plants and just over 1 GW from self-consumption and energy communities;

• 4 GW of wind power, more than half of which onshore;

• 14 GWh of storage capacity, mostly large-scale, as projected by Terna-Snam.

  
  

No to the Gas Pipeline: The System Doesn’t Need It

One of the clearest messages of the report is that building a gas pipeline in Sardinia is unnecessary. The island's power system can be managed safely and reliably even without new gas-fired plants.

The only projected use of fossil fuels involves high-temperature industrial processes, with limited use of approximately 3.7 TWh of liquefied gas. Even so, this is a marginal use and does not justify the construction of a regional gas network.

Lower Bills Thanks to Renewables

Going 100% renewable is not only positive for the environment—it also benefits household and business finances. According to the NEMeSI model, Sardinia could see a 39% reduction in the zonal electricity price compared to 2024.

The result? An average saving of about €80/year for a typical household consuming 2,000 kWh. These benefits grow even further with the electrification of domestic consumption, widespread use of heat pumps, and electric mobility.

The Role of Storage and the Tyrrhenian Link

To ensure system security and stability, the plan includes:

• BESS (Battery Energy Storage Systems) to store energy during midday overproduction and release it during evening hours or low-generation days;

• The under-construction Tyrrhenian Link, a submarine cable connecting Sardinia to mainland Italy, useful for balancing energy flows and exporting excess energy.

  
  

Land Use and Landscape: Minimal Impact

Moving to a 100% renewable system does not compromise Sardinia’s agriculture or landscape. According to the report, the surface area required for installations would be less than 5,000 hectares—under 0.4% of the region's Total Agricultural Area (SAT).

This means the transition can happen without significant land consumption, while even promoting practices like agrivoltaics, which combine agricultural and energy production.

Looking Beyond 2030: Avoiding Unnecessary Investments

The study highlights the importance of avoiding the construction of fossil infrastructure that would soon become obsolete. Sardinia can and must plan a transition aligned with 2050 climate goals, avoiding stranded assets and ensuring a resilient, clean, and competitive energy system.

Conclusions: Sardinia Has What It Takes to Become a European Model

Sun, wind, available land, mature technologies, and now a concrete technical vision: Sardinia has everything it needs to become a European model of island energy transition—provided clear and timely choices are made.

To achieve this goal, the following are essential:

• Effective spatial planning, with identification of suitable areas and streamlined permitting processes;

• Investments in storage, grid infrastructure, and digitalization;

• Real involvement of local communities, with benefit-sharing models and tools such as Renewable Energy Communities;

• Strong political leadership aligning regional and national strategies around a shared and ambitious goal.

Our Commitment

At Noraservice, we firmly believe Sardinia should be a leader in Italy’s energy transition. For over 10 years, we have been developing high-quality solar and wind projects, working in synergy with local communities and focusing on innovation and sustainability.

Every day, we commit to building a cleaner, fairer, and more independent energy future. And we’re ready to do our part.