Analysis of regional vulnerability with regard to rising energy prices. Focus on Sardinia

The paper analyzes the impact of the increasing energy costs on regional economic performances. In particular, the study focuses on the impact of energy costs on the transport system, with particular reference to the maritime transport, attributing it directly to the relevant importance of the local tourism industry. It shows the high dependence of the local economic system on the regional transport system both internally and externally, and con-sequently the loss of regional competitiveness as a result of rising oil prices. Moreover the work reviews the princi-pal local policy measures about energy strategies and it highlights the low use of renewable energy sources in spite of the high regional PV potential recognised in several environmental researches.