Public energy efficiency sector in Norway: time for restructuring

Panel: Panel 1: Assessment of Energy Efficiency Policy

Author:
Terje Stamer Wahl, Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate

Abstract

The poster will be a comparative study between the existing and future "regime" for public policy energy efficiency in Norway. It will pinpoint main differences with regards to several financial, organisational and operational aspects, and include a broad, critical assessment of the public energy efficiency sector in Norway the last years.

The scope and objective of public energy efficiency measures have, more or less, been limited to an increased knowledge among end-users about efficient energy use.

On the other hand, politicians and society expect measurable energy savings. In addition, energy efficiency work in Norway has been fragmented. Thus, the need for change has been prominent.

The new "regime" will be focusing on real energy savings and the documentation of results. A new agency, Enova, will be responsible for promoting a shift in energy production and energy use. This will include promotion of energy efficiency, new renewables and direct use of natural gas. Funding will come both from a surplus on the wire charge and from the State budget. Enova will be more independent than NVE as a directorate, and will be able to choose the most cost effective measures to achieve the present goals within the different areas of responsibility.

Enova is supposed to work through subcontractors, on a competitive basis. Contracts should, in general, reflect commercial terms. Enova will be directly subordinated to The Ministry of Petroleum and Energy.