Decarbonization in the EU: Setting the Scene

Abstract

The European Union (EU) has promoted ambitious energy and climate policies, particularly since 2008, aiming for progressive decarbonization towards 2050. Norway is the EU’s second most important energy partner, behind mighty (and occasionally controversial) Russia. More than 30 per cent of the gas imported by Germany, France and the United Kingdom comes from Norway, and new power cables will strengthen the already important electricity trade between Norway and EU member states. Norway shares the overall climate ambitions of the EU and policymakers on both sides have cooperated closely to structure their energy interfaces so as to facilitate decarbonization.