NTNU professor claims nuclear power is most cost-effective for energy systems

A debate has emerged regarding the economic viability of nuclear versus wind power in Norway, centered on a report by NTNU professor Jonas Kristiansen Nøland. Nøland argues that nuclear power is the most cost-effective option when considering total system costs, including power grids, reserve capacity, and the need for high-effect energy during peak consumption. His calculations estimate nuclear power at 158 øre/kWh, compared to 183 øre/kWh for onshore wind and 303 øre/kWh for floating offshore wind.

Critics, including Jens Frølich Holte of Fornybar Norge, challenge these findings. Holte argues that Nøland’s report relies on inflated assumptions, such as setting wind power investment costs at 21,900 NOK per kW—which he claims is significantly higher than the 17,000 NOK per kW reported by DNV for Europe. Holte also disputes the 50% increase applied to NVE’s operating cost assessments for wind power, suggesting the methodology used to justify such increases is scientifically questionable.