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.

Why is solar power growing in Norway?

Despite the low energy prices, solar power is growing rapidly in Norway. In 2016 four times as much capacity was installed as the year before, mostly on commercial buildings and private homes connected to the grid. Norwegian companies are also important players in the production of crude silicon and silicon wafers for the solar cell industry.

What can Norway do with solar energy?

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. Smart grids make it easier to coordinate storage and consumption of energy.

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).

Does Norway have a solar market?

Downstream national (deployment, integration and use of PV in the Norwegian market): The Norwegian market for PV has grown in recent years and we show that an increasing number of firms have entered the industry. However, annual and cumulative installations in Norway are much lower than neighbouring countries with similar solar resources.

Does Norway offer financial support for solar projects?

Many Norwegian policies, like Enova and Skattefunn, offer financial support schemes, according to certain rules. For example, Enova provide financial resources for solar installations in private houses, while in bigger projects an innovative technology should be involved in addition.