More energy co-operation – not less
The starting point for this year’s theme debate was the recent report from Nordic Energy Research, The Nordic Energy Trilemma: Security of Supply, Prices and the Just Transition, which asks questions and makes recommendations about the trilemma of how to develop the Nordic energy sector so that it not only contributes to the green transition and guarantees security of supply, but does so at prices everyone can afford. Klaus Skytte, Director of Nordic Energy Research, had a clear message for the parliamentarians.
“We must guarantee security of supply, but also ensure that everyone in the Nordic Region has access to sustainable and affordable energy. In the short term, this means implementing the green transition to a self-sufficient and sustainable region as quickly and smoothly as possible. In the long term, we need a diversified energy system so we all work together, draw on each other’s strengths and bring everyone on board,” says Skytte.
We must guarantee security of supply, but also ensure that everyone in the Nordic Region has access to sustainable and affordable energy.
Not as robust as we thought
A number of Nordic MPs have advocated national solutions, which involve the countries closing themselves off. The main driver behind the debate is the spiralling prices that are hitting the most vulnerable the hardest. National agencies have also expressed concerns about security of supply and warned of possible electricity rationing. However, Ola Elvestuen, chair of the Committee for a Sustainable Nordic Region, believes that Nordic energy co-operation is crucial.
“We need to work better together, to address the crisis arising from Russia’s brutal attack on Ukraine, bring about the necessary transformation in the Nordic Region and work with Europe to end dependence on Russian gas.
In times of crisis, it is important not to lose your head. Over the years, Nordic energy co-operation has benefited the whole region and continues to bring many advantages. The diversity of energy sources means the countries complement each other, which has ensured stable and affordable energy for people and companies. Now, both security of supply and price face challenges.”
We are at the forefront because we have been working well together for decades. Now we have to build on that.
“We are at the forefront because we have been working well together for decades. Now we have to build on that. We have to be quicker when it comes to processing various issues. We have to learn from each other and work better together on the transition to renewable energy.
We’re running out of time.
The crisis has underlined the value of close Nordic energy co-operation. Working more closely together is essential to prepare the Nordic Region for future geopolitical challenges and the green energy transition. Elvestuen points out that we are in the midst of a climate crisis as well as the energy crisis.
“There’s no time to waste, because we have to meet our climate goals. It’s still possible to reach the 1.5-degree target, but we need to adapt. The necessary developments in the energy sector, whether in offshore wind, upgrading hydropower or bioenergy and other areas, need to happen fast.
