Policy framework for the interaction between buildings and the energy system in Norway

Abstract

This report provides an assessment of the impacts of the current policy and regulatory framework upon efficient energy usage, management of increased energy surpluses, storage and exchanges in and between buildings in Norway. There is currently a reinforced focus and priority towards energy efficiency in buildings. Yet, there are no explicit policy measures in place which directly aim at stimulating more energy storage and exchange. An important economic barrier is related to the ownership and management of energy infrastructure, both for district heating and electricity. The regulation of third-party access and deliveries to district heating, which is now in its beginning given recent amendments in the legislation, as well as the forthcoming regulation for plus customers (or 'prosumers') of electricity, can be seen as first steps in this regard. What kind of costs and/or benefits this will imply for producers and consumers are not fully clarified. Still, innovative pilot projects hosted by municipalities, as well as the building industry's approach to low-energy building concepts, may jointly add force to the impulse stemming from the EU legislation, towards a more 'interactive' Norwegian policy framework.