Norway energy markets show recovery amid new solar regulations

Norway's ventilation, cooling, and energy market is showing signs of recovery. According to a report from VKE, the market is predicted to grow by 8.6% this year, driven largely by refurbishment projects in existing commercial buildings. While high interest rates and energy prices following the Strait of Hormuz conflict have impacted the broader construction industry, the climate market is expected to see growth supported by large hospital projects in Oslo.

In a separate regulatory move, the Norwegian Energy Regulatory Authority (NVE) has proposed a simplified ‘inform and install’ process for small-scale renewable energy connections. This change aims to streamline the installation of solar PV systems for households and housing associations. Under the proposal, customers would only need to inform grid companies of planned installations; if the company does not raise concerns within one month, the permit is considered granted. The policy targets systems up to 6 kW for single-phase and 11 kW for three-phase connections to ensure predictable local renewable production without compromising grid stability.