Integration of electricity markets in Europe: relevant issues for Italy

by Anna Cretì, Eileen Fumagalli and Elena Fumagalli

In this paper we analyse the current trend towards a higher degree of market integration in Europe and identify those aspects that are particularly relevant for Italy. The Italian involvement in this process appears comparatively modest: contributions from policy makers, practitioners and academics are, instead, necessary to estimate the potential advantages and disadvantages of integration and to indicate the preferable coupling solution. These proposals should be supported by robust analyses and sound evaluations: we identify open questions and indicate the direction for further work.