The Norwegian Government suspends the proposed national framework for onshore wind power

During his speech at the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate’s (NVE) Energy Conference, the Norwegian Minister of Petroleum and Energy, Kjell-Børge Freiberg, announced that the government is suspending the framework for onshore wind power generation, including the 13 locations identified as most suitable for wind power projects.

NVE submitted the national framework, which consisted of 21 specialised reports and a map identifying the 13 areas most suitable for onshore wind power generation, on 1 April 2019. The framework has been out for a public hearing period that ended October 1. The Ministry of Petroleum and Energy has received 5000 submissions, the majority of which have been negative to the proposed national framework.

• This effort was meant to reduce conflict, but we see now that this is not the case. This is why we have decided to shelve the national framework meaning there is no national plan for wind power in the near future, Prime Minister Erna Solberg, told the Norwegian Broadcasting (NRK).

The government also announced that the reports that were part of the framework will form the knowledge platform as a review of the licence process commences. All pending application concerning the installation of wind turbines in Norway are on hold until the government has approved and implemented changes to the licence process for such projects.

Grette will keep you updated on any further developments.