Italian state-owned railway company Ferrovie dello Stato (FS) is embarking on a significant renewable energy initiative with a €1.3 billion investment in a large-scale photovoltaic project. The plan, which was revealed by CEO Stefano Donnarumma, aims to produce 1 gigawatt (GW) of solar energy by 2029, meeting 19% of the rail operator’s energy demands. By 2034, FS intends to expand the project’s capacity to 2.2 GW, covering up to 40% of its energy needs.
Donnarumma emphasized the company’s commitment to sustainability but also clarified its approach to managing the infrastructure. While Ferrovie dello Stato is not interested in operating the solar facilities itself, the company plans to partner with financial and industrial players. “We could sign contracts to use the energy for a set period, or purchase existing plants with a partner,” Donnarumma explained, stressing the importance of collaboration in achieving the company’s ambitious renewable energy targets.
The expansion plan is part of FS’s broader strategy to reduce its carbon footprint and contribute to Italy’s transition to renewable energy. As part of this effort, the company is considering creating a dedicated corporate vehicle to manage the project. This would allow potential investors to buy stakes and participate in the development and operation of the solar plants.
The €1.3 billion investment also reflects growing interest in green energy projects across Europe. Initial discussions with banks to secure funding are already underway, with the project expected to attract significant attention from both industrial and financial investors. The solar energy initiative is a crucial step in Ferrovie dello Stato’s efforts to ensure energy sustainability while supporting Italy’s broader environmental goals.
This move aligns with broader EU objectives to reduce dependency on non-renewable energy sources and increase the adoption of solar energy across various sectors. By 2034, FS’s solar energy initiative could play a major role in decarbonizing the Italian transportation sector, contributing to Italy’s goals of reducing emissions and boosting renewable energy capacity.
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