Sustainable energy supply in rural arctic areas

Abstract

The dissertation is a collection of the three leading publications, which result from the doctoral research project ‘Sustainable Energy Supply in Remote Arctic Areas - Analysis of resources, technology and policies for developing energy systems’. The research focuses on which energy resources are available in the Arctic and how the various resources can be harvested with different mature energy technology options for remote Arctic communities. Mature energy generation technology means that the operation under harsh and cold climatical conditions is well proven. Furthermore, the current energy situation among remote Arctic communities will be mapped out, with an analysis of which energy sources are used, the share of the different sources, and the energy demand of remote communities. After explaining the different energy generation options and main drivers for using renewable energy in remote Arctic communities, three case studies have been conducted. The case studies examine the viability of a potential energy transition for Arctic communities. The case studies also share some insights from field visits in remote communities on generating electricity with renewables and potential energy saving potentials. The last part elaborates on different integration strategies for renewable energy options. The focus lies on how to finance the energy transition in remote Arctic communities, which can help to structure the energy transition process financially. The dissertation finishes with an overall conclusion on the importance of renewable energy for Arctic communities. The research shows that renewable energy can be vital for remote communities to become more energy independent and lower the energy cost burden.