Average power generation from photovoltaic panels in Oslo

Is solar power a viable option in Norway?

Norwegian hydropower is currently so cheap that power companies do not consider it attractive to build solar power plants in Norway. In recent years, however, companies have started selling or leasing solar systems to private customers and businesses in Norway. Despite the low energy prices, solar power is growing rapidly in Norway.

How does solar power work in Norway?

Solar power is only produced during the day, thus it must either be used immediately, stored or sold via the central electricity grid. In Norway, production of solar energy can offload the tapping of water reservoirs. Smart grids and digitization: Most Norwegian households will soon be equipped with smart meters.

How much solar power will Norway produce in 2025?

“With a current solar PV capacity of 600 MW and a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 154%, the projected solar power production for 2025 is estimated to reach approximately 2.4 GW,” he said. “The exponential growth underscores a promising trajectory, suggesting that Norway is poised to meet the envisioned solar capacity milestones.”

How popular is solar energy in Norway?

With regards to general social acceptance of PV in Norway, a survey executed by Kantar, shows that a large proportion (89%) of the Norwegian population are positive towards solar energy as an energy source, which is rated higher than other renewable energy technologies such as wind power (Kantar, 2020).

How will solar energy impact Norway?

Together with wind, solar energy will account for most of the replacement of fossil fuels. Norway is closely linked to the European energy market. Regardless of the growth of solar in Norway, the development in the EU will have consequences for Norwegians.

How many solar plants does Norway have?

Norway reached 597 MW of cumulative installed PV capacity spread across 28,170 solar plants at the end of December, according to new figures from the country's grid operator, Statnett, via its Elhub subsidiary. The country added about 300 MW of new PV installations in 2023. By comparison, it installed 152.7 MW in 2022 and 42.7 in 2021.