Can other Northern nations, cities, and communities embrace full-scale renewable energy and move away from fossil fuels given the seeming lack of optima opportunities?
The Arctic is at a crossroads: continue to develop new sustainable technologies or take advantage of the vast fossil fuel reserves that the region contains? The question remains complex as many challenges remain on the path towards sustainability in Arctic energy production. While southern European countries continue to grow their renewable energy production, there is still a prominent reliance on fossil fuels and nuclear power - noted by the total renewable energy production across the EU at only 20% in 2019.
How can Arctic communities implement renewable technologies in remote communities, given the challenging physical and infrastructural barriers? While the case of Iceland´s dominant use of renewable energy sources may be perceived as a model solution, Iceland´s progress is based on its ideal geological location to harness geothermal energy. Similarly, certain Canadian Arctic communities are optimally situated to harness hydroelectric power.
This session will explore the possibilities to achieve a fully renewable grid in the region and what technologies and approaches will need to be embraced to make a complete departure from fossil fuels possible.