What electrical outlets are used in Italy? Do they include the plugs of our appliances? Do tourists need an adapter? Read the answers in our article, as well as tips for tourists and a lot of interesting things about Italian kilowatts.
Supply voltage
The voltage of 230V (+ 6 / -10%) 50Hz is accepted in the power grids of Italy, now it is the European Union standard, to which all EU countries switched back in 2003. In Russia, according to GOST 29322 (of 2014), the voltage standard is 230V +/- 10% 50Hz.
The supply voltage in the networks of Russia and Italy is the same, there are no problems here.
Types of electrical outlets and plugs
Italy has the largest "zoo" of outlets in Europe. It uses both Europlug (type C, European), Schuko (type F, German), and CEI 23-50 (type L, Italian). Moreover, the Italian ones come in two configurations - 10A and 16A.
But! In 99 out of 100 cases, tourists have no problems with sockets.
The vast majority of hotels have Schuko sockets (type F) that are compatible with our plugs. Recall that the devices sold now in Russia are equipped with Europlug or Schuko plugs.
Difficulties can arise only for those tourists who rent apartments, apartments or villas for recreation. Italian format sockets (type L) can be installed there. Even so, Europlug plugs fit perfectly.
The only time the plug will not fit into the outlet
If Italian sockets (type L) are installed in the apartment or hotel room. Such sockets are in most cases adapted to accept Europlug and Schuko plugs. However, it is rare to find old-style Italian sockets that do not accept Schuko plugs. These plugs are equipped with laptop power supplies, kettles or electric burners, electric heaters and other relatively powerful devices.
Only in this case our plug will not fit into the Italian socket. The chances of this happening are almost nil. And if this still happened to you, then go to the hotel reception (or contact the owner of the apartment) and take the adapter.
Hotels in Italy (as elsewhere) do not install many outlets, at best 3-4 per room, and the sockets are inconveniently placed in different corners of the room. In this case, one is used for a small refrigerator, another one for a TV.
Take with you a small block of outlets (it is also popularly called "pilot") for 4 or 5 sockets. It is convenient because:
First, there will definitely be enough outlets for chargers for all gadgets of all family members;
Second, you can conveniently put the "pilot" on the table so as not to bend over;
Third, with his filter, he will be able to protect devices from current surges, which occur in Italian power grids, although rarely.
Such a "pilot" can be bought in a store for 250-350 rubles. It weighs about 200 grams and does not take up much space in a suitcase.
Meet the Italian type L sockets
At the same time, we will answer the question: "Where does such a" zoo "of sockets come from in Italy?"
Until the 1960s, two power supply networks existed in Italy in parallel. One for lighting, with a voltage of 128 volts. The second is for powering other electrical appliances, with a voltage of 220 volts.
Moreover, the tariffs in these two networks were different. The Italians received and paid two different bills. Why was it necessary? Probably only Italian engineers can explain.
Accordingly, different sockets were used in these networks. In the 1960s, two networks were abolished and switched to 220 volts. But the double format of the sockets remained. These Italian formats are now described in the CEI 23-50 specification.
The first type of Italian sockets called: CEI 23-50 P10 (with ground) or CEI 23-50 P11 (without ground). Plugs for them: CEI 23-50 S10 (with grounding) or CEI 23-50 S11 (without grounding).
Two pins with a diameter of 4 mm, the distance between the pins is 19 mm. The third grounding pin is located in the center. These sockets include Europlug plugs. However, Schuko plugs are not included as the diameter of the pins is too large - 4.8mm.
The second type of Italian sockets called: CEI 23-50 P17 (with ground) or CEI 23-50 P16 (without ground). Plugs for them: CEI 23-50 S17 (with ground) or CEI 23-50 S16 (without ground).
Two pins with a diameter of 5 mm, the distance between the pins is 26 mm. The third grounding pin is located in the center. These sockets DO NOT accept Europlug plugs and DO NOT accept Schuko plugs, as the distance between the pins is too great.
Italian sockets have not made only the first or second type for a long time. Make at least a combo of both types, with 4 (no ground) or 5 (with ground) holes. In the photo next to the right, the classic Italian version, which does not accept Schuko plugs.
Recently, adapted sockets have become popular, which can accept both types of Italian plugs and in addition German (Schuko) and French plugs. In the photo next to the left, this is exactly the option that Schuko plugs accept.
They also produce universal sockets with additional holes for German (Schuko) and French plugs.
It is likely that in the future Italy will abandon its type of sockets as unnecessary. The trend towards this can be traced clearly. Almost all electrical appliances in Italy are now sold with Europlug (type C) or Schuko (type F) plugs.
How much does a kilowatt hour cost for Italians?
Expensive - € 0.21 per kilowatt-hour. At the time of the last update of this article (2019) it is 15.16 rubles. For comparison, the tariff in Moscow is 5.47 rubles. Italy ranks 7th in the EU in terms of price per kilowatt. More expensive only in Denmark, Germany, Belgium, Spain, Portugal and Ireland.
High prices make sense. Italy does not have its own hydrocarbon reserves. The energy industry in Italy is still based on the combustion of fossil fuels. 51% - natural gas, 12% - coal, 6% - oil products. These are the latest statistics available for 2017.
Previously, Italians were heavily dependent on gas supplies from the USSR and Russia. Now they are actively importing LNG (liquefied gas), but this does not save the situation. Only alternative energy sources will save them.
Italy is forced not only to pay dearly for gas. Burning fossil fuels leads to large CO emissions, and these emissions also come at a premium. But the Italians are actively working on this problem. If in 2004 emissions were at the level of 7.9 tons per one inhabitant of the country, then in 2014 they decreased to 5.3 tons. However, energy prices in Italy are still very high.
Did the Italians tame the "peaceful atom"?
Tamed, but then refused. Then they decided to tame it again, and again refused. The history of nuclear power in Italy is very interesting.
The first nuclear power plant in Italy opened in 1963, then two more in 1964, and another in 1978. In total, there were 4 nuclear power plants in the country. In 1986, the Chernobyl disaster occurred, which frightened the Italians very much. The then popular Greenpeace staged protests, hung banners like in the photo next to it.
In 1987, a popular referendum was held in which the people voted against nuclear reactors. By 1990, all four stations had closed.
In the 2000s, the passions for Chernobyl subsided. Italian financiers and economists have calculated the losses and lost profits from the abandonment of nuclear energy. They calculated 50 billion euros and decided to resume the nuclear program. The 2008 election was won by Silvio Berlusconi's PdL party, which strongly supported nuclear power.
Planning began for the construction of four new nuclear power plants. However, in 2011 there was an accident in Fukushima (Japan), and the Italians were again very frightened. A referendum was held again, and on June 13, 2011, Italians voted against nuclear power. The construction of the nuclear power plant was curtailed completely.
Green energy in Italy
Italy has a huge potential for the development of solar and wind energy. However, the situation is not very good so far. Only 9% of energy is generated by solar stations, 6% by wind, 6% by biomass combustion, 2% by geothermal. Another 14% comes from hydropower. In total, renewable sources account for 37%, green sources only 17%.
Italy is making long-term plans for the improvement and development of the energy sector. By 2030, it is planned to increase the overall energy efficiency in the country by 30%, and to bring the generation of "green" energy to 26%.
Enjoy your vacation in Italy, and read our interesting articles about this country ( list of articles below).
European wiring products use two basic installation standards, German and Italian. When making a purchase, check what standard of installation is supposed, because this affects the complexity of the installation.
Standard mounting boxes with a diameter of 68 mm are used. The number of mechanisms is equal to the number of junction boxes.
To mount the products, you will need a mechanism, an overlay and a frame.
German and French electrical installation standards:
An exception is the mechanisms of electrical outlets (230 V). The German standard uses Schuko sockets (“Schuko” is an abbreviation for the German term Schutzkontakt (literally: “protective contact”), which indicates that the plug and socket are equipped with protective earth contacts (in the form of staples, not pins Schuko connectors are used on 230 V circuits. The rated current is 16 A.
It is important that the German standard socket mechanism is always equipped with a cover plate. Therefore, when replacing wiring accessories consumers install a new cover plate and change the mechanism, since the socket terminals are under heavy load during operation. For safety reasons, German manufacturers recommend a complete renewal of power outlets.
German manufacturers offer wide functionality and sophisticated laconic design. The maximum number of posts per frame is five.
Choosing a product of the German standard, you do not have to worry about the arrangement of the mounting boxes (the limit is 5 pcs. In one block), but you need to decide in advance on the color of the overlays.
Together with the European standard (68mm), non-standard mounting boxes and frames are used. The number of junction boxes is often not equal to the number of mechanisms.
Modular system: 2 single-module mechanisms can be installed in one standard installation box. This is convenient when placing low-current sockets, since they are assembled, for example, a television and computer outlet is placed in one post in one post.
Unusual mounting boxes and corresponding frames are used: for 3, 4, 7 and other modules. This is convenient when you need to organize the control of 3 or more light groups in one place, for example: in restaurants, cafes, bars, etc. Using the Italian standard, you can compactly place up to 7 switches in one place.
The product is assembled according to the principle: mechanism + support + frame.
Important: the movement is supplied with a decorative cover (3-4 basic colors to choose from). When replacing mechanisms with new ones, you will have to change the mechanisms, since it is impossible to replace the linings.
Along with Schuko sockets, there are Italian or (Euro-American) sockets that are more compact, but without a grounding contact.
Choosing products from southern European manufacturers, you have a chance to encounter the absence or non-standard solution of some functional products, for example: a thermostat for a warm floor, but this is more than compensated by the Italian approach to design: an abundance of color and material of the frames, a special attitude to the shape and texture of products.
The maximum number of posts in a frame is 4.
Choosing a product of the Italian standard, you will have to take care of the arrangement of mounting boxes, especially non-standard ones (remember the limitation - 4 pieces in one block), you will also have to immediately decide on the color of the mechanism linings and do not forget to purchase calipers for them, since it is impossible to install the products without them.
Mixed standard. Well-known manufacturers: Simon, Legrand, etc.
Standard mounting boxes along with "Italian" ones. The number of boxes may not correspond to the number of mechanisms.
The product is assembled according to the principle: mechanism + escutcheon + support + frame
Important: when choosing such products, you can first purchase and install mechanisms, and after finishing the premises you can decide on the color and material of the products. Color change of products is possible without dismantling the mechanisms. A series of products of a mixed standard, with a wide range of functionality and a wide choice of designs.
The maximum number of posts in a frame is 4 or 5.
Choosing a product of a mixed standard, you will have to take care of the arrangement of installation boxes, especially non-standard ones (clarify the limitation - 4 or 5 in one block). At the initial stage of the repair, you do not have to worry about the color of the products, since the mechanisms are supplied without overlays, they can be purchased separately. Due to the complex set of products, the specification is more complex and voluminous.
For convenience, we have combined the information from this article into a detailed infographic. You can order the EUI on the website of the company Architect. After ordering, our managers will check the complete set of products, coordinate it with you according to e-mail and send the finished products assembled. You just have to install the purchased sockets or switches.
Types of sockets in hotels tourist countries(UAE, Cyprus, Thailand, Vietnam, Italy others)
While abroad, tourists sometimes face the problem of a mismatch between the plug and the local electrical outlet. Most often this happens when recharging gadgets, when trying to use a hairdryer or an electric shaver.
In most hotels in the world there are no problems with renting the adapter you need for a nominal sum. Often the required adapter can be purchased at your nearest store. But if you are a frequent traveler, prefer not to stay at a hotel, or do not want to rely on chance, the following information will be useful to you.
To connect household appliances to the mains, two types of electrical voltage and two mains frequencies are used in the world:
- European current at 220-240 V with a frequency of 50 Hz
- American-Japanese at 100-127 V at 60 Hz.
At the same time, various types of electrical plugs for household appliances and standard sockets are no longer 2 or 3, but as many as 15. They differ not only in shape, but in the size of the plugs, the absence or presence of grounding.
The diagram shows all 15 types of outlets, they are arranged in numerical order adopted by the ITA - US Department of Commerce in 1998. (Some models are similar in the illustration, but they differ in the size of the jacks and plugs).
You shouldn't be intimidated by so many different types of outlets. If you wish, you can buy an adapter in advance and travel with it. There are several types of adapters that will allow you to connect your device to a different type of outlet and there are universal adapters.
Knowing what type of outlet is used in a particular country will help you choose the right adapter, or understand that you do not need one for your trip.
Cyprus
In all hotels in Cyprus, the electrical plugs for household appliances and the corresponding outlets are type G. This is the famous British system with three rectangular pins - one vertical and two horizontal. How they look can be seen in the photo. If you do not want to spend money on an adapter, you can rent it at the hotel reception, leaving a small deposit. The money will be refunded upon departure. Some Russian narrow plugs fit into such sockets, so it's worth a try first (without using physical force).
Sockets in Thailand
Thai sockets have either two holes, or two pins, or two pins with a hole. Accordingly, these are type C (euro socket), A and B (American sockets with and without grounding). Russian and Ukrainian electrical appliances are connected to type C sockets without any problems. There are also universal hole options (pictured). Flat-prong sockets usually include refrigerators, so they are less loose in hotels. If you need to recharge your phone or laptop, it is better to find an adapter and use such "sockets for the refrigerator" type A, and when you need to turn on several devices at once, it is useful to have an extension cord with several sockets, they are inexpensive in Thailand. What kind of sockets in Thailand - you can see in the photo (universal option). However, if you have expensive equipment, it is better to have a grounded adapter.
Features of sockets in Vietnam
The type of outlet in Vietnam varies by region. In South Vietnam - type A (pictured), in North Vietnam, type C (European). In expensive hotels, you can find British G sockets. But everywhere - the usual current of the 220 V, 50 Hz network. There are adapters in hotels, but with a large influx of visitors, they may not be enough for everyone.
India
The generally accepted types of sockets in India are C, D and M. The current in the network is European. Russian plugs are quite suitable for Indian sockets. There are no problems with Euro plugs, but the thin pins of some may not sit tightly and they will have to be fixed somehow, in which case it is better to use adapters. In general, tourists with power outlets do not have problems in hotels of any star rating. The photo shows a common example of the type of outlets in hotels in India.
Italy
Basically, sockets in Italian hotels are of type F. There is a grounding bracket inside, which does not interfere with inserting most of our domestic plugs. European type C and three-point type L sockets are also widespread. If the plugs have thick legs or have grounding, like a computer, then you cannot do without an adapter. In the photo on the left - a type L socket, on the right - a type F socket in Italy. If necessary, adapters can be bought in any store for 1-2 euros and at the hotel receptions they will be given free of charge.
Sockets in the Dominican Republic and Cuba in hotels. Features of the mains voltage
Sockets in the Dominican Republic in hotels are of types A and B - American, with and without grounding. Hotel adapters are available at the reception. But the country's power supply standards are different: the voltage in the network is 110 V, the frequency is 60 Hz. If you turn on a kettle, razor or iron for 220 V, they will work at a quarter of the strength, and charging will take longer. Transformer adapters are on sale, they cost about $ 16, although they do not have much power. Sockets in the Dominican Republic in more modern hotels are suitable for plugs not only of American samples, but also of European ones, both with or without grounding. Similarly, the situation with the voltage of the mains and the types of outlets is the case in Cuba. In modern hotels in Cuba, there are even Euro sockets with a voltage of 220 V.
Sockets in Israel
Israel is "famous" for its unusual sockets, which are used only in this country, the voltage standard is European. Type H sockets are designed for a 3-pin plug. Old buildings still have old European type C sockets. Modern hotels equipped with sockets, where the three-pin input makes it possible to connect a regular European plug. Chargers and other household appliances turn on without problems, even the old Soviet model.
Sockets in the UAE
Many who have visited this country will give different answers to the question of which sockets are in the UAE and whether an adapter is required. The fact is that there are three standards side by side - the widespread type G of the British socket with three flat pins, where an adapter is needed, the type C of the usual European, which does not need an adapter, and the type D, which came here from Old England. In Britain it is no longer used, but in India it is found. Many narrow European plugs are stuck into this type, and with plugs of the old Soviet model, you can connect through an adapter. The problem can be easily solved on the spot - adapters are available in hotels. The voltage and frequency in the UAE network are the same as ours.
France
Sockets in France are ordinary European type C and type E (pictured), voltage and frequency are standard. Sometimes an adapter is needed, as for the previous Tefal teapots, but most often a tee and an extension cord are useful, since the socket in the hotel room will be singular.
Spain
Sockets in Spain in hotels of types C and F, which are suitable for the European standard. Pictured is type F. No adapter required.
Greece
In Greece, the sockets are European standard (type C). In Crete, you may need an adapter - there are sockets with three inputs (D in the photo), so you won't be able to use them just like that.
Maldives
G, J, K - types of outlets in the Maldives. Power supply 230 V, 50 Hz. An adapter is required, but it is better to decide on its type on the spot. Expensive hotels already have the necessary adapters.
G 
J 
K
Indonesia
The most common types of electrical outlets are C and F, and adapters are not needed for them. Less commonly - British G, then an adapter is needed. The current in the network is 220 V 50 Hz, in Bali - 127 V, there may also be sockets and American type B with grounding.
Mexico
Voltage 127 V, frequency 60 Hz. The outlet types are North American A and B. Therefore an adapter is required. Not everywhere in hotels in Mexico it is offered for free, so you have to spend a little. It can also come in handy on the way - at the airport, on the ferry, in a cafe, so it's better to get your own.
Singapore
Types of electrical outlets A, C and G are used for connecting video equipment, M - for air conditioners and fixed hair dryers; hotels have different adapters. The current is European.
Sri Lanka
In four to five-star hotels in Sri Lanka, the type of outlet is more often British G, although there are types D and M. Current 230 V, 50 Hz.
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