“Norway and EU’s Green Alliance: Putin Loses as Europe Cooperates on Energy Solutions”

Vladimir Putin loses when European countries manage to cooperate on energy solutions for the future. Due to a rapid and successful European transition, Putin can no longer use energy as a weapon.

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Putin chose confrontation and conflict. As a result, Russia lost its most important export market for gas.

Norway has instead become the largest supplier of gas to Europe. In contrast to Russia, Norway is a reliable, like-minded and long-term energy partner for the EU.

It is both natural and right that Norway also takes part in important and large projects for a green transition.

On Monday morning, Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen signed the cooperation agreement, which is called a green alliance.

The foundation has been laid for strengthened cooperation in terms of climate, energy and industry.

In eight areas, Norway will cooperate with the EU to combat climate change, save biological diversity, secure critical raw materials and ensure a green transport sector.

Increased investment in hydrogen and offshore wind is mentioned in particular. There is also carbon capture and storage.

The agreement was not signed last year due to disagreements between the EU and Norway about future gas and oil extraction. Now the dispute is settled.

As the government has pointed out, Europe will need Norwegian oil and gas, also after 2030.

However, the agreement is not legally or financially binding. The value of the alliance must be judged by the fruits. It is up to the authorities and the business community to give these objectives sustenance and growth.

Støre traveled from Brussels to the North Sea Summit in Ostend. Leaders of nine northern European countries gathered to plan increased investment in offshore wind.

A concrete example is that the Netherlands and Great Britain will jointly build a plant in the North Sea that will supply both countries with energy.

Offshore wind is part of the solution to Europe’s energy needs and a part of the green transition. There is a need for more renewable energy, both to reach the climate targets and to become more self-sufficient.

Putin’s invasion of Ukraine was the final proof that Europe had to free itself from its dependence on Russian oil and gas.

Norway is an important partner in the transition. The keywords are energy security and energy independence. Norway contributes as a supplier of gas and as a participant in the green shift. It is in our interest.