Norwegian organizations demand reforms in banking and energy policy

In Norway, various organizations are calling for legislative changes to address issues regarding community funding and energy transitions.

A group of 298 voluntary organizations, representing 560,000 members, has signed an appeal against the practice of savings banks distributing customer dividends from community capital. The organizations argue that since a 2009 law change, these dividends have come at the expense of community contributions. Last year, Norwegian savings banks paid out 2.2 billion NOK in customer dividends. The group seeks to reinstate the original intent of community capital, which was to support local culture, sports, and volunteerism.

Separately, 16 trade unions, industry, and environmental organizations have urged the Storting to accelerate solar power development and energy efficiency measures. Citing data from the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE), the groups warn that current progress is insufficient to meet national goals. Their demands include auction-based support for solar power on commercial buildings, expanded power-sharing schemes between neighbors, requirements for solar cells on new constructions, and increased subsidies for energy efficiency through Enova and Husbanken.