The Norwegian Power-Intensive Metallurgical Industry and Its Role in the Global Household

Abstract

This paper was published and presented to the Norwegian King Harald in 2012. The first part of the paper presents the history of the Norwegian silicon and ferroalloy industry and their importance for Norway and the human society in general. The metallurgical industry in Norway has a long tradition dating back to the time of the Vikings. Also the necessary competence has been prioritized – the first mining institute was founded in 1757.

The second part of the paper other deals with the importance of energy and the role of the metallurgical industry. Silicon is a good example because of the importance of solar energy in a change to renewables.

The third part is about global resources in general and the importance of the energy. This part is the main reason to republish the paper. Sadly the writing here is even more actual today. Both energy, environment, water, food, and peace should be better taken care of as suggested 10 years ago.

Silicon will play an even more important role in the global household in the coming years due to the change to renewable energy production

Keywords: Norway, silicon, energy, resources