Revitalizing Italy’s Housing Stock: Policies and Economic Strategies for Energy Efficiency and Social Equity

Stefania Tonin ()
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Stefania Tonin: Department of Architecture and Arts, University Iuav of Venice, 30135 Venezia, Italy

Land, 2025, vol. 14, issue 6, 1-18

Abstract: This paper critically analyzes Italy’s strategies to improve energy efficiency in the residential building sector, focusing on social housing. Using a policy-oriented qualitative research design supported by secondary data analysis, the study examines key instruments such as the Superbonus 110% initiative and the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR). It explores how these measures align with the European Green Deal and address the dual challenges of ecological transition and social equity. Findings reveal that while the Superbonus and PNRR investments significantly boosted energy retrofitting projects and macroeconomic indicators, access to benefits was uneven, favoring higher-income households. The analysis also highlights systemic barriers, such as bureaucratic complexity and initial cost barriers, that limit participation by vulnerable groups, particularly those living in outdated social housing. The paper concludes that future policies must better integrate social inclusion mechanisms, simplified administrative processes, and effectively target energy poverty to maximize environmental and social outcomes.

Keywords: energy efficiency; ecological transition; social housing; energy poverty; policy analysis (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q15 Q2 Q24 Q28 Q5 R14 R52 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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