Power supply in Norway

The power supply in Norway is primarily from hydroelectric power plants. Of the total production in 2004 of 110 TWh, 109 TWh was from hydroelectric plants, 900 GWh was from thermal power, and 260 GWh was wind generated. In 2004 the total consumption was 120 TWh. [http://www.nve.no NVE]

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.

External links

* [http://www.ssb.no/english/subjects/10/08/10/elektrisitetaar_en/ Norwegian electricity production]