Are the Nordic regions a good place for PV installations?
While solar energy might not be the first thing that springs to mind when thinking of Nordic countries, these nations are now harnessing the sun’s power in ways that defy traditional stereotypes.
Even though it may seem counterintuitive due to their climate, Nordic countries are remarkably well-suited for PV installations. Solar irradiation levels during the long summer days, when the sun barely sets, make these regions perfectly viable for solar power generation. In fact, it’s a burgeoning industry that’s increasingly turning heads towards the north.
The science behind solar energy production also tells an exciting story.
Solar panel cells operate more optimally at lower temperatures. Cold environments help maintain the cells’ operational temperature, allowing them to work at peak efficiency. The Nordic regions often enjoy strong sunshine, and when this is coupled with the reflective properties of snow, solar irradiance is significantly increased. A good example of this was during the first COVID lockdown when Western Europe saw record irradiance levels.
But the advantages don’t stop there. The Nordic region has already shown its prowess in harnessing the sun’s energy. By 2018, Nordic countries had reached a cumulative installed PV capacity of 1.6 gigawatts (GW). This achievement is even more notable when considering that these are among the most arctic countries in the world. Private power purchase agreements (PPAs) for PV projects are gaining traction, too, particularly in Sweden and Denmark. This trend indicates a growing recognition of the potential of Nordic solar energy.
Renewable energy investment in the Nordics is not a new phenomenon. Green energy already accounts for more than half of all electricity generation in Sweden and Norway. Yet, the interest in solar energy is growing more robust, thanks to technological advancements and decreasing costs.
As solar technology costs continue to fall, the Nordic countries are doubling down on solar power. They recognize the unique confluence of environmental and market conditions. Far from being deterred by the cold, these Nordic nations are leveraging their chilly climates to lead the way in solar power generation.
A look at the PV landscape in the Nordic regions
There are many reasons to be optimistic about the future of the PV landscape in the Nordics, but we should also focus on what’s already been achieved. Here are some stats to illustrate this:
★The CO2 emission intensity of district heating and power production in Scandinavia has dropped by 50% in the last 30 years.
★Globally, CO2 emission intensity is seven times higher than in Scandinavia.
★The renewable energy share in Scandinavia increased from 31% to 40% in the last ten years.
★In 2020, Nordic electricity generation was 87% carbon-free.
★In Oslo, 30% of all vehicles are electric.
The manufacturing industry for PV materials is also very strong in the Nordics. Solar-grade silicon and silicon solar cells are essential components of manufacturing solar panels, and Norway is one of the biggest producers in the world of these materials.
In Sweden, Finland, and Denmark alone, there’s projected to be a combined 74 GW of installed onshore wind and solar PV capacity by 2030, including 12.8 GW from solar PV. Denmark aims to install 9 GW of solar PV in the same timeframe, with Sweden seeking to add another 3 GW. Currently, over 90% of the power produced in the Nordics comes from renewables.
