Most people would not expect the world’s smallest country, with fewer than 1,000 residents, to lead the global energy conversation. In 2025, the Vatican City flipped the switch on something much bigger than its size. A full transition to solar power. So from now on, the seat of the Catholic Church runs almost entirely on clean energy; it is a powerful moment, not in policy, but in principle. This echoes Pope Francis ‘ long-standing views on environmental stewardship and climate responsibility. This is not just about rooftop panels; it’s about how science, sustainability, and faith can coexist and set the pace for the rest of the world.
On May 29, 2025, the Vatican City officially transitioned to solar power, marking a significant shift in the European energy landscape. The heart of this change is located at Santa Maria di Galeria, a former Vatican Radio site that has been transformed into a solar energy hub. This project was carried out by ACEA, an Italian utility company, which installed systems to meet all of the Vatican’s energy demands.
