Italy HVAC-R Sector Reaches €83 Billion, Plays Key Role in Energy Transition

HVAC-R Sector Reaches €83 Billion

Italy: In Italy, the HVAC-R supply chain has reached a turnover of EUR 83 billion (USD 89.64 billion), generating EUR 27 billion (USD 29.16 billion) in added value and contributing nearly EUR 300 billion (USD 324 billion) to the national economy, according to a study by The European House – Ambrosetti presented at Mostra Convegno Expocomfort. The sector plays a central role in the energy transition, particularly in buildings, which account for 41% of final energy consumption in Italy, with 63% still dependent on fossil fuels. In the residential segment, around 80% of consumption is linked to HVAC-R systems. The industry employs approximately 400,000 people and has recorded a 20% increase in employment over the past decade, outperforming the national average, while every EUR 1 (USD 1.08) invested generates EUR 2.83 (USD 3.06) in production and EUR 1.22 (USD 1.32) in added value, with more than three indirect jobs created for each direct role.

The sector’s transformation is being driven by regulatory developments towards decarbonisation, growing demand for energy-efficient buildings, advancements in smart technologies, and increased use of data. The share of efficient buildings has risen from 7% in 2014 to 44% today, with value differentials reaching 80%, while the smart home market has expanded fivefold over the past decade. However, challenges remain, with 61% of companies reporting difficulties in finding qualified personnel and the sector shifting towards service-based models such as predictive maintenance and digital system management. Technological complexity in buildings continues to grow, while awareness remains limited, with 64% of Italians having low knowledge of the topic. According to Ambrosetti, sustaining growth will require regulatory stability, strengthened skills development, and the creation of 250,000–270,000 new roles by 2029, alongside closer integration with ITS Academy programmes to better align technical training with industry needs.

Source: BRICO Magazine