Tajani Highlights Positive Aspects of Energy Market Liberation in NRRP

01 Dec, 2023

Tajani Highlights Positive Aspects of Energy Market Liberation in NRRP

Italy's Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, emphasized the positive aspects of Italy's adherence to the European Union's post-COVID National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP) by endorsing the liberation of the country's energy market. Despite potential disagreements within the coalition government, Tajani refrained from escalating tensions over this matter.

Tajani highlighted that Italy's commitments to the EU under the NRRP involve the liberation of the energy market, aligning with the government's recent decision to end the 'protected' energy market regime. This move aims to introduce open competition and potentially reduce energy prices. Premier Giorgia Meloni's Brothers of Italy (FdI) party and Forza Italia (FI) support this transition, citing the prospect of decreased prices, while Deputy Premier Matteo Salvini's League party advocates extending the protected regime to safeguard consumers' interests.

Expressing his views after a meeting at the Azzurri headquarters on energy and the free market, Tajani commended the government's decision, stating that data suggests liberalization could lead to a decrease in prices. He also acknowledged Environment Minister Gilberto Pichetto's positive contribution to the initiative, emphasizing the importance of honoring commitments made with Europe through the NRRP.

When asked about the differing stance of the League party regarding the extension of the protected market, Tajani opted to avoid stirring controversy within the coalition, preferring to maintain harmony among the parties involved in the government. This stance reflects a desire to uphold unity despite varying opinions on the energy market's future direction.