Italy’s Edison is preparing to scale back natural gas imports from Libya as part of a gradual shift towards liquefied natural gas (LNG), the company’s chief executive said.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Gastech 2025 conference in Milan, Nicola Monti confirmed that Edison’s supply contract with Libya, valued at 4.4 billion cubic metres annually, is due to expire within the next two years. He added that deliveries are likely to be reduced progressively until the deal runs its course.
The move is part of Edison’s wider strategy to strengthen flexibility in securing supplies, amid Europe’s efforts to diversify energy sources and reduce reliance on pipeline gas. Monti stressed that the company is rebalancing its portfolio to respond to market dynamics and ensure security of supply.
Edison has recently signed a long-term agreement with Shell to purchase 0.7 million tonnes per year of US LNG from 2028, signalling a stronger role for liquefied gas in Italy’s energy mix. The agreement is expected to give Edison greater freedom to redirect shipments between the Italian and wider European markets, depending on seasonal demand.
Libya has long been a significant pipeline gas supplier to Italy through the Greenstream link, operated by Eni and the Libyan National Oil Corporation. However, recurrent instability and fluctuating production have often disrupted flows. Analysts say Edison’s gradual withdrawal reflects broader European trends favouring LNG imports from diverse suppliers, especially the United States, Qatar and Africa.
While the potential reduction poses challenges for Libya’s gas export revenues, officials in Tripoli have sought to attract investment to stabilise production and extend supply partnerships with European firms. For Italy, the shift underscores an ongoing transition towards more flexible energy procurement and resilience against market shocks.
