Can wind and solar power be used in Svalbard?

23) This approach is supported by an earlier case study prepared by The Nordic Council of Ministers (2018) titled ‘De-cabornising Svalbard’, 24) which suggests that wind and solar power used in combination with both electric boilers and heat pumps would provide ample electrical supply.

How can Svalbard maintain a secure and sustainable supply?

Furthermore, the case found that the best long-term solution for Svalbard to maintain a secure and sustainable supply would be to integrate a mix of renewable energy technologies. Some of these technologies include: solar panels (PV), wind turbines, heat pumps connected to geothermal and both heat and electricity storage.

How has Norway reinvented Svalbard's economy?

During this period, towns were built around commercial coal mining activity.Although coal mining is still present, activity is dwindling and Norway has reinvented Svalbard’s economy by transitioning towards three main industries: scientific research, education and tourism. 2)

What is Norway doing in Svalbard?

Now used as tourist attractions, both Mine 3 in Longyearbyen, which was shut down in 1996 and abandoned in 1998, and the Soviet town of Pyramiden are two examples of this economic shift. Besides tourism, Norway has further diversified its activity on Svalbard by investing in high-level Arctic research.

Why does Norway need a climate plan for Svalbard?

The Minister of Climate and Environment Sveinung Rotevatn outlines the necessity to protect Norway’s commitment to the 2030 and 2050 climate goals whilst ensuring that the project is constructed in a way that does not majorly intervene in the vulnerable natural landscape of Svalbard.

Who owns the Svalbard coal mine?

The company facilitates and supports the coal mining industry as well as the community. Situated in Longyearbyen, Svalbard’s administrative capital and largest settlement 6) the other active coal mine is run by the Norwegian state-owned enterprise Store Norske.