Italy's right-wing government has sparked controversy with new rules limiting the installation of solar panels on agricultural land. While the government argues the move protects farming, critics say it undermines Italy's commitment to clean energy.
The new regulations ban ground-mounted solar panels in designated agricultural areas. This aligns with demands from farm lobbies who view traditional solar installations as incompatible with cultivation.
Environmental groups are alarmed. They accuse the government of jeopardizing Italy's pledge to triple renewable energy capacity by 2030, a goal agreed upon with G7 nations. Italy also recently committed to phasing out coal-fired power plants.
The government maintains these restrictions won't hinder its solar power goals. They claim alternative solar solutions,like agri-voltaics which allow for both farming and power generation, are still permitted.
The policy's impact on Italy's clean energy ambitions remains to be seen. Only time will tell if the government can achieve its solar targets while adhering to these new limitations.
Source: Reuters
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