In contrast to the rest of Europe, Norwegian power generation gives off virtually no CO2 emissions. Nevertheless, the climate goals pose important challenges for the Norwegian power sector:
- New CO2-free power is needed in order to replace fossil fuel.
- New CO2-free power generation is less flexible. Therefore, increased trade in the power-market is necessary to fulfil the climate policy.
Norwegian hydroelectric power could play an important role as a ‘swing producer’.
New renewable power is important for Norwegian emission reductions. To achieve reductions, countries need to cooperate on increased transmission capacity. Norwegian flexible hydro power can contribute to the EU`s climate goals and give added value for Norway.
Coal- and gas-fired power stations can be located close to major centers of consumption and produce according to consumer`s needs. New renewable power generation is dependent on location at the resource an on weather conditions.
When considering the quality of local environment and landscape, new power lines should be avoided. But when global warming is considered, strengthening of the grid is required both within Norway and between Norway and our neighbours.
