Energy Communities and their Implementation in the Norwegian Context: Potential of Implementation for the City of Stavanger

Abstract

The concept of Energy Communities in Norway is not yet defined to the same extent as it has been evidenced in other European countries. One of the main reasons why is given by the non-EU status of the country, where terms such as Citizen Energy Communities (CEC) and Renewable Energy Communities (REC) are not defined within the energy market legislation. This situation is becoming crucial in an energy market that is sticking to the international dynamics that, mixed with the dynamics of the geopolitical sector and the environmental conditions of Norway, create highly volatile scenarios on the price of power for end users. Additionally, when accounting for the climate goals set worldwide, and specifically for the Norwegian context, the implementation of Energy Communities would mean a faster pace of advance towards reaching such targets.

This research presents an analysis of the potential the city of Stavanger has to implement Energy Communities by defining how to successfully measure the implementation process, what existing business models could suit the context of the city, and elaborating on what hindrances and opportunities are under the enforced policies related to power production and sharing. The analysis will be run based on two scope areas of the city by referring to their spatial configuration, as well as the involvement of key actors in the power and planning sectors that provide insight on the ideas and circumstances that could lead to establish a collective movement for the production and sharing of power.

Concepts such as the Polycentric Governance theory, Energy Efficiency and Energy Flexibility will arise as significant terms along this document since the author of this document considers them as the most important points of focus for the implementation and evaluation of Energy Communities in the selected location.