Legal Framework to Develop Offshore Wind Power in Norway

Abstract

Norwegian renewable energy policy is at a crossroad in many ways, influenced by both internal and external factors of technical, economical and regulatory nature. This situation is well illustrated by the current state of development of the offshore wind energy sector. Norway is facing a paradox of having a new regulatory framework in place enabling the construction and operation of offshore wind generation facilities, but being unable to develop a domestic market for offshore wind. While the political willingness is there as proven by the adoption of two recent parliamentary resolutions, Norway is still lacking a momentum for starting commercial offshore wind projects. There is consequently almost no experience with offshore wind in Norway, except some few demonstration projects. Meanwhile, Norwegian authorities and commercial actors see promising potential in the development and export of offshore wind technologies, in particular floating installations.

This Chapter provides an analysis of: the political will to develop offshore wind in Norway, the rationale for moving offshore, target-setting, regional cooperation, the institutional and commercial actors, the legal design for offshore wind, including permitting, incentives, EIA/SEA, siting related planning, public participation, grid access.

Keywords: offshore wind, Norway