Italy Moves to Speed Oil and Gas Projects in Energy Security Push

Italy has adopted measures to accelerate oil and gas projects, including plans to appoint special commissioners when local authorities fail to decide on drilling permits within required deadlines. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said increasing domestic production would reduce reliance on imports, while the energy minister called stalled approvals a threat to national security. Italy produces only a small share of its oil and gas needs and remains heavily dependent on natural gas. The policy follows supply disruptions and energy costs.