The Italian government’s Energy Decree introduces temporary cuts to fuel excise duties, recalculated tax credits for business investments, and a special fuel credit for farmers, effective from 8 April to 1 May 2026, aiming to ease energy costs and support sustainable projects.
The Italian government has published Legislative Decree No. 42/2026 in the Official Journal (General Series No. 78) on 3 April 2026, introducing urgent fiscal measures to support businesses and agriculture amid rising energy costs. This decree supplements the earlier Legislative Decree No. 38/2026, currently under parliamentary conversion.
Temporary reduction of fuel excise duties
Between 8 April and 1 May 2026, excise duties on major fuels are temporarily reduced:
- Gasoline and Diesel: EUR 472.90 per thousand litres
- Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG): EUR 167.77 per thousand kg
- Natural Gas: EUR 0 per cubic metre (m3)
The reductions also apply to paraffin-based diesel (HVO) and biodiesel, provided they meet EU State aid requirements.
Tax credits for business investments
Businesses with certified investments in capital goods can benefit from recalculated tax credits for 2026, set at 89.77% of the theoretical amount. This applies to tangible and intangible assets under Law No. 232/2016, as well as training expenses linked to the investments.
Additionally, a complementary contribution is available for renewable energy self-generation projects, including storage systems, subject to environmental compliance and financial limits.
Special fuel credit for agriculture
Agricultural businesses can claim a tax credit of up to 20% of diesel and gasoline expenses incurred in March 2026 for agricultural vehicles. The credit is fully set-offtable, excluded from taxable income and IRAP calculations, and can be combined with other incentives within the overall cost limit.
These measures aim to ease energy costs for businesses and farmers while promoting investment in sustainable energy solutions.
