Norway faces potential woodland loss as over 60 solar power plant applications submitted

Over 60 applications for solar power plants have been submitted in Norway, which could potentially result in the deforestation of vast woodland areas. If all proposed projects come to fruition, they would occupy more than 38,000 decares (around 94,000 acres), roughly the size of over 5,300 football fields. Additionally, permits have been sought to develop about 1,215 decares of “grey” areas, which are non-wooded spaces designated for purposes such as gravel pits or disused industrial sites.

Concerns have been raised by local politicians regarding the forest’s ability to sequester CO₂. They suggest focusing instead on installing solar panels on rooftops and other grey areas. The Mayor of Gjøvik believes that the solar power plant could contribute significantly to the local energy supply and green energy production.

However, the section leader at Norway’s Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE), Svein Grotli Skogen, has indicated that most projects are unlikely to move forward. Currently, seven smaller solar power plants have received approval, but NVE is evaluating the feasibility of the recent applications which involve significant land use.

Local governance in areas like Gjøvik is contentious, with differing opinions about sacrificing woodland for energy needs. A recent vote on a solar project has narrowly passed, highlighting the ongoing debate between energy development and environmental conservation. With Gjøvik facing a notable energy deficit, officials underline the necessity of sustainable energy solutions, while skeptics caution about long-term ecological impacts.