Instruments like white certificates have the potential to boost efficiency gains, reduce primary energy consumption, and make energy systems more resilient. The purpose of this paper is to provide insights into the white certificate scheme through a case study analysis. Given the increasing decarbonization and energy efficiency targets, it is important to reconsider the role that policy tools play in the energy transition, including mandatory energy efficiency schemes, of which white certificate regimes are a part.

The focus is on the white certificate scheme in Italy because it is one of the longest-running and has achieved significant results. The mechanism is characterized by increasing energy-saving targets year by year, flexibility, the ability to include many operations, and the role of energy service companies. Results based on an empirical survey are provided, and the research can serve as a foundation for policymakers in designing white certificate schemes in countries with little prior experience, offering useful information to improve energy efficiency.