Of People, PV, Power Lines: Energy Islands in the Nordics

Two island communities in the Baltic Sea are currently taking their first steps towards a sustainable energy future. In this research project, we want to learn from them and their world-leading ambitions.

The need to find pathways away from fossil fuel societies is scientifically recognised and politically entrenched. As the IPCC recognises in its 1.5 degree report, we will have to take drastic action that affects every aspect of our lives. The way we produce and consume energy is a key factor in moving towards a fossil-free society. This means that our energy systems need to change. We will see more investment in renewable energy, energy efficiency and energy storage, mainly electricity. We will also see a new role for civil society, which must actively contribute to the transformation of our energy systems.

All this means that the challenges ahead are not only technological, but also social. We will have to take into account multiple stakeholders and their interests when planning our energy systems. This in turn means that we need new ways of planning our cities and shaping our communities as this has been done in the past by a handful of designated experts.

In this project, we want to learn how communities are planning a fair energy system that takes into account these new circumstances. The two island communities, Åland and Gotland, are both developing ambitious plans to realise a more sustainable energy future. We take a closer look at how civil society and citizens become active actors in the planning and implementation of low-carbon energy projects. Insights from this project can inform energy planners how to develop a common energy future that is both, renewable and fair.