The security policy landscape has changed fundamentally. At the same time, the energy system is becoming increasingly electrified, digitalised and interconnected. The expert group points out that the threat and risk picture has developed faster than the knowledge, competence and innovation capacity needed to make energy systems more robust and resilient.
Energy security is a system-level question
In the report “From vulnerability to robustness in a serious threat landscape – a national effort for energy security through research, development and innovation”, the expert group recommends a long-term, cross-sectoral commitment to energy security.
Energy security is no longer only about access to energy. Geopolitics, critical supply chains, digitalisation, climate change, technology development and increased electrification create new dependencies and vulnerabilities. This calls for more knowledge about how the energy system can be developed and operated robustly – including under serious crises.
The effort should span the full innovation cycle, from research and development through testing, market introduction and deployment, and connect technological, economic, societal and security policy perspectives.
A key input to Norway’s national R&D strategy for energy
The report was prepared for Energi2050, the process developing Norway’s national strategy for research, development and innovation in the energy sector. It gives a consolidated picture of threats, vulnerabilities, trends and research and innovation needs related to energy security towards 2050.
The findings and recommendations will feed into the assessment of which research, development and innovation needs Norway must address to secure a robust energy system and strengthen the country’s strategic freedom of action in the years ahead.
The road from vulnerability to robustness runs through knowledge. The expert group stresses that the need for a national effort is both urgent and long-term – and that the work must start now.
THEMA partner Håkon Taule, together with Lene Mostue (Energi2050) and Gunhild A. Reigstad (SINTEF Energi), provided technical, analytical and administrative support in preparing the report.
