Hydrogen and gas: Italy is the only one in compliance with the EU directive, infringements for 26 other countries

Italy is the only EU member state to have notified the full transposition of the directive on the hydrogen and decarbonised gas market within the legal deadline: The European Commission has decided to open infringement procedures, by sending a letter of formal notice, for all the other 26 countries of the Union on the directive, adopted in 2024 as part of the EU package on hydrogen and decarbonised gas which updated the rules on the EU natural gas market contained in the Gas Directive and the 2009 Gas Regulation. They also introduce a regulatory framework for hydrogen infrastructure.

The rules aim to facilitate the deployment of renewable and low-carbon gases, including hydrogen, while ensuring security of supply and affordable energy prices for all EU citizens. Member States had to notify the transposition of the directive into national law by 5 August 2026. To date, the Commission reports, only Italy has notified the full transposition of the directive within the legal deadline. With the letter of formal notice, the 26 countries will now have two months to respond, complete the transposition and notify it to the Commission. In the absence of a satisfactory response, the Commission may decide to issue a reasoned opinion.

EU infringement against Italy and everyone in the EU on industrial and livestock emissions

The EU Commission has decided to initiate infringement procedures by sending a letter of formal notice to all member states, including Italy, for failing to notify the measures for full transposition of the directive on industrial and livestock emissions. This was announced in a note recalling that the directive updated in 2024 has made the rules on reducing emissions more rigorous, aiming to reduce the use of dangerous chemical substances and extends the scope of application. Strengthens the public's rights and introduces a new right to seek compensation for health damage caused by illegal pollution.