Support for the self-generation of energy from renewable sources in SMEs
The Support for the self-generation of energy from renewable sources in SMEs is an initiative of the Ministry of Enterprise and Made in Italy designed to encourage small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to invest in photovoltaic and mini-wind power plants. This programme offers significant contributions for SMEs that want to focus on renewable energy production systems. In particular, medium-sized enterprises can count on a maximum contribution of 30%, while micro and small enterprises can get up to 40%.
An incentive that will give an even stronger boost to a sector that by 30 June 2024 had reached 1,763,977 photovoltaic systems connected in Italy, for a total power of 33.62 GW.
The deadline for submitting applications ended on 16 June. However, Enel can support companies in the planning and implementation phase of these interventions. SMEs that are unsuccessful in obtaining grants will have several options for project implementation.
I termini per presentare le domandi si sono conclusi il 16 giugno. Enel può però supportare le aziende nella fase progettuale e attuativa degli interventi. Le PMI che non riusciranno a ottenere i contributi, avranno a disposizione diverse opzioni per la realizzazione dei progetti.
Expenditure and Investments
Eligible expenses included the purchase, installation and commissioning of photovoltaic systems, equipment, and functional digital technologies, as well as storage systems. Investments could range from EUR 30,000 to EUR 1 million per production unit, making the programme accessible to a wide range of SMEs. Incentives were granted through a ranked assessment procedure, in which applications were examined on the basis of specific criteria.
SMEs were able to submit the necessary documentation through the Invitalia portal between 4 April 2025 and 16 June 2025, according to the terms set out in the implementing decree of 31 March 2025. The deadlines for submitting applications are therefore over, but Enel is at the disposal of SMEs that have already submitted applications - independently or with the support of other consultants - for the design and implementation of interventions.
For companies that have not been able to access subsidies, Enel Italia offers several solutions to optimise the economic-financial impact of the investment.
Guide to the Allocation of Funding
To access the bonus funding, SMEs had to follow a ranking procedure. This process began with the receipt of the applications by the Implementing Authority, which verified the completeness of the documentation and the formal eligibility of the applications. Eligible applications were then assessed according to specific criteria, which were awarded a score. Specifically, a premium score was given to costs related to the purchase of solar photovoltaic systems registered in the Photovoltaic Technology Register, with increasing bonuses for the most efficient photovoltaic modules. At the end of this phase, a ranking list was published reflecting the scores obtained
Applications were submitted exclusively online through the Invitalia portal, following the procedures and deadlines set by the decree. The financing was then disbursed in a maximum of two stages of progress. Alternatively, it was possible to request disbursement in a single instalment at the end of the project. What this means is the first instalment was disbursed after purchase invoices were submitted for at least 20% of the investment, while the balance or disbursement in a single instalment could be requested within 60 days of the conclusion of the investment programme, accompanied by documentation of the expenses incurred and a final technical report.
How we support SMEs in the Energy Transition
Enel has been at the side of numerous small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Italy to make the energy transition a simple and profitable path.
For many companies, we have taken care of the complete management of all the paperwork necessary to obtain the state subsidy, ensuring that every step was clear and smooth. We have also collaborated with partner banks to offer financial services on favourable terms, further facilitating access to the necessary funds for the realisation of photovoltaic projects.
With our turnkey PV package, we have taken care of the supply, installation and testing of the photovoltaic system, with the possibility of also combining storage systems and power quality solutions. We also offered an expense reporting service, managing all communications with Invitalia. With Enel, SMEs have been able to deal with the energy transition with confidence and dedicated support.
Enel Energia customers, or those who have chosen to become one, have been able to access a number of exclusive benefits.
- Discount on Energy Diagnosis, offered by an Enel Energia Partner
- Dedicated power tariff with favourable conditions
- Consultancy for the management of the call for tenders on dedicated terms: SMEs that have realised their installation with Enel have received support at no extra cost.
These aspects have continued to be very important even after the 16 June application deadline.
Support for the self-generation of energy from renewable sources in SMEs: opportunities
Support for the self-generation of energy from renewable sources in SMEs not only represents an economic opportunity for Italian SMEs, but also contributes to the transition towards a more sustainable economy.
With significant incentives and structured support from Enel, companies have the opportunity to reduce their energy costs and improve their market competitiveness.
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