Power supply in Norway
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| Data | |
|---|---|
| Installed capacity (2007) | 30.46 GW |
| Share of fossil energy | 1% |
| Share of renewable energy | 98% |
| GHG emissions from electricity generation (2007) | 0.8 Mt CO2 |
| Average electricity use (200) | 25 kW·h per capita |
| Services | |
| Institutions | |
The electricity sector in Norway relies predominantly on hydroelectricity. Of the total production in 2007 of 137 TWh, 135 TWh was from hydroelectric plants, 1 536 GWh was from thermal power, and 892 GWh was wind generated.[1] In same year, the total consumption was 115 TWh.[2]
Norway has an open electric market, integrated with the other Nordic countries. Export and import is routine over the direct power links to Sweden, Denmark, Germany and the Netherlands. The market is handled by Nord Pool. Many of the hydroelectric plants in Norway are easily adjustable and can adopt well to variations in demand, and hence in price. On a normal day, when price is low during nighttime, Norway normally imports power, and exports during daytime when price is higher.
A significant share of the total electrical production is consumed by national industry.
During the last few years a combination of high power prices in the market and less than usual rainfall has made the power system more vulnerable to power shortages. So far consumers in Norway have noted this by paying a higher price for electrical power during wintertime, however still a low price in international terms.
Norway is considered by many to have particular expertise in the area of building and operation of hydroelectric power plants.
[edit] References
- ^ Statistics Norway - Production of electric energy, by type, county and ownership group. 2005-2007. GWh
- ^ Statistics Norway
