In 2023, Italy Appointed 2,498 Energy Managers, a Twenty-Year Record

by Marco Arezio

The year 2023 was a memorable one for the role of the energy manager in Italy, marking a record number of appointments not seen in the past twenty years.

With a total of 2,498 appointments, the number of active energy managers in the country saw a 19% increase compared to the 2014-2020 period and a 1% increase compared to the 2020-2023 period.

This data, emerging from the "Energy Manager in Italy 2024" report presented by the Federation for Rational Use of Energy (Fire), reflects a renewed focus on efficient energy management in the context of growing environmental and economic concerns.

The Role of the Energy Manager

The energy manager is a crucial figure in Italian companies, responsible for the conservation and rational use of energy. This role, mandatory for companies and entities exceeding a certain energy consumption threshold, aims to optimize energy efficiency and reduce waste.

In 2023, out of the appointed energy managers, 1,728 came from obligated entities, marking a 17% increase compared to the 2014-2020 period and a 2% increase compared to the 2020-2023 triennium.

A Growing Post-Crisis Trend

The record growth in appointments in 2023 represents a significant reversal of the trend seen in previous years, characterized by a decline in appointments due to the pandemic crisis and the energy price crisis.

The reduction in energy consumption in sectors such as industry and transport had indeed led to a decrease in investment in specialized roles such as energy managers. However, 2023 saw a revival, with an increase in appointments reflecting renewed attention to energy efficiency and sustainability.

Diversity and Competence of Energy Managers

Another significant data point from the Fire report concerns the diversity and competence of energy managers. In 2023, 178 women were appointed, representing about 10% of the total.

In terms of qualifications, 79% of energy managers hold a technical degree, while 1% have a non-technical degree, and 16% have a technical professional diploma.

These figures highlight the importance of specific and advanced training to meet the challenges of energy management. Additionally, 67% of energy managers are employees of the involved companies, while 37% are external consultants. This data underscores the growing trend of companies integrating specialized skills within their organizational structures.

Certifications and Energy Management Systems

Another relevant aspect is the growth in the number of energy managers who hold the certification of experts in energy management (Ege).

21% of employees and 73% of consultants have obtained this certification, demonstrating a growing commitment to professionalization and competence in the sector. Additionally, there is an increase in the number of energy managers working within an energy management system (Sge), a key indicator of the maturity of companies in terms of energy management.

Future Perspectives

Looking ahead, the increasing appointment of energy managers and the enhancement of their skills represent a positive signal for the Italian energy economy.

Efficient energy management not only helps reduce operational costs for companies but also mitigates the environmental impact of industrial activities. With growing attention to sustainability and energy efficiency, the role of the energy manager is becoming increasingly central in the industrial and corporate landscape.

In conclusion, 2023 marked a turning point for the figure of the energy manager in Italy. The record growth in appointments and the increase in skills and certifications reflect a growing awareness of the importance of energy management.

If sustained, this positive trend could lead to significant economic and environmental benefits for the country, contributing to a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.