The IAI-Eni strategic partnership aims to promote research and discussion on the key issues of the energy sector by analysing various aspects related to socio-political, economic, industrial and technological dimensions. The energy sector faces multiple challenges, such as the fight against climate change, the development of a just transition, and evolving geopolitical dynamics. The goal of the partnership is to develop tools that enhance understanding of these challenges.

In the effort to decarbonize its power sector, the Italian government has committed to phase out coal by 2025, as outlined by the National Energy Strategy (SEN) adopted at the end of 2017. Indeed, coal capacity in Italy amounts to 8 GW of installed capacity (around 11-12% of electricity demand) and is responsible for 18 million tons of CO2 emissions per year.