On February 28, 2025, the Italian government introduced significant new measures to ease the financial burden of rising energy costs through the "Decreto Bollette 2025." This decree introduces a one-time bonus of 200 euros for families with an ISEE indicator (an economic measure used to assess eligibility for social benefits) below 25,000 euros. The measure, which aims to support both households and businesses affected by increasing energy prices, will be effective immediately and reflects the government's urgent response to the energy crisis.
The Bonus Energia 2025 is set to directly alleviate energy costs for millions of Italian families. According to the government’s release, approximately eight million households fall under the qualifying income bracket, making it easier for those struggling financially to receive the necessary support. The bonus will automatically be applied to the following electricity bill, making the process straightforward for families.
Households eligible for this benefit must provide no formal application. Instead, they need to submit the Dichiarazione Sostitutiva Unica (DSU), which will be used to calculate their ISEE. The declaration can be easily submitted through official channels or via designated tax assistance centers. Once submitted, INPS (the Italian social security agency) will share the data with the Sistema Informativo Integrato (SII), triggering the corresponding credit on their utility bills. There’s no need for additional steps, as the mechanism is already established from previous social bonus programs.
Importantly, the 200-euro bonus is cumulative with existing social bonuses for energy support. For families with ISEE below 9,530 euros, there’s potential to receive up to 500 euros total, thereby substantially reducing their financial obligations on utilities. Such comprehensive financial assistance is especially pertinent as it accounts for the drastic spike in energy prices globally.
From the moment this decree takes effect, families will receive the bonus on their utility bills for three months, starting as early as the second quarter of 2025. Energy Minister Gilberto Pichetto Fratin noted, "There has been a dramatic rise in gas prices globally, necessitating intervention to support families with financial difficulties. By extending the ISEE limit to 25,000 euros, we're making these benefits accessible to many more households."
Eligibility for the bonus extends to families with ISEE below 25,000 euros, which includes collaborations with current beneficiaries of social energy bonuses. The structure of these bonuses is also redesigned to cater to larger families—particularly emphasizing those with several dependents to tackle economic challenges more effectively.
Specifically, the highest assistance will go to families comprising one or two members, amounting to 367.90 euros combined under the standard social bonus. For households of three to four, this figure increases to 392.90 euros. Larger families are eligible for even higher support, reflecting the government’s emphasis on providing assistance precisely where it’s most necessary.
To claim the new bonus, families must have submitted their ISEE for 2025, with the government strongly recommending timely updates to avoid potential delays. For those applicants who either delay or fail to report their current financial status, the bonus could be revoked or accrued at slower rates—delaying immediate relief.
Beyond bonuses, the decree also outlines substantial support for local businesses facing the brunt of rising energy costs through measures such as reduced charges on energy tariffs and extraordinary contributions based on specific eligibility criteria. Every measure taken corresponds with the goal of making both household and commercial energy expenses more manageable during this turbulent economic time.
The automatic payment structure established during previous administrations has simplified access for eligible consumers, providing easier routes to financial relief without overwhelming bureaucratic barriers. Families receiving social energy bonuses won’t need to submit separate applications, but should remain proactive about maintaining their updated financial statuses.
The government’s preemptive measures signify the Italian administration's responsiveness to contemporary economic challenges as they materialize, reflecting directly on community welfare and overall economic stability. Families are strongly encouraged to prepare accordingly—particularly those who haven’t reported their ISEE—before the expected influx of requests as the program takes full effect this spring.
Overall, the Decreto Bollette 2025 highlights significant improvements to energy support structures, prioritizing the health and wellbeing of populations vulnerable to rising costs. Citizens are urged to stay informed about updates and take proactive steps to qualify for the maximum assistance available.**
With the incentives established, those eligible can breathe easier knowing there are measures being taken to support their domestic and financial needs amid these difficult conditions, making it imperative to navigate energy expenses smartly and efficiently.