Norway installed 45 MWp of new solar energy in 2021, and 2400 new PV systems were connected to the grid according to a recent report from NVE . We now have a total capacity of 186.5 MWp. The real import figures for solar modules to Norway were around 60 MWp in 2021, approx. 15 MWp more than what was registered in Elhub. There are several facilities that have been completed, but which were not commissioned before the end of 2021, including Coop Gardermoen and several schools in Oslo. Some solar modules were also stocked.
In Sweden, 26,500 solar power plants were connected to the grid, with a total power of 500 MWp. They now have a total effect from solar energy of approx. 1.6 GWp. It is Formula 1 against Go-kart, despite the fact that we have a similar geographical starting point, population and focus on the environment and climate.
7-10 TWh annual solar power production possible by 2030
The leader of the Solar Energy Cluster Trine Kopstad Berentsen, demands far more. „It is weak that the government does not have a stated ambition for what they want with solar power production in Norway. With better framework conditions, the solar industry can deliver 7-10 TWh of annual solar power production by 2030“, says Berentsen.
Solar energy in Norway can contribute with renewable energy where the power is needed, and it can be developed quickly. The technology works very well in the Norwegian energy model, and in interaction with wind energy can even out hydropower production so that the reservoirs are filled and emptied when it is most profitable, Berentsen says.
Larger grid developments can be postponed by producing electricity locally and investing in solar energy. The Norwegian power model where all electricity production takes place in the districts is outdated, and new power production should also be planned locally where the power is needed.
Clearing of the regulations can speed up a lot
Bjørn Thorud in Multiconsult has been talking about solar energy in Norway for many years. He has the following to say about the further investment in Norway: „In a situation where we need more power, the development of solar power is far too slow, but with simple measures and clearing of the regulations, the speed can be increased significantly.
For large buildings, solar power is already profitable, while the Enova support for small projects should be continued and overall little support is needed for rapid growth. Solar power gives us all, both individuals and companies, the opportunity to become a power producer and thus contribute to a safer and more cost-effective power system in Norway“.
Bjørn Thorud's views were also discussed in the Solar Energy Cluster's own podcast Solsagt. The episode can be heard here .
The necessary next steps
Going forward, the authorities must ensure that:
· The solar industry must be allowed to contribute more
· The tax on self-produced solar energy must be eliminated
· The energy must be able to be shared freely on the property
· Solar energy customers do not have to pay double grid rent
· Solar energy does not need more financial support - only the obstacles need to be removed (hcn)
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