Resilient Energy Production in the Faroe Islands
This solution addresses inconsistent peak energy demands on an independent grid in the Faroe Islands for large industrial operations requiring large energy loads, independent energy providers
Problem Description
The Faroe Islands' resilient energy grid was created for several reasons. For one, the island system is disconnected from the energy grid of mainland Europe. Previously, energy has had to primarily come from imported foreign oil. When this supply chain is disrupted for any number of reasons, it has the potential to lead to energy blackouts. These blackouts can be devastating to Faroese businesses like fish farms, which require constant huge loads of electricity to keep their fish stocks alive. Secondly, in light of climate change, the Faroe Islands recognize the rising importance of developing a low-carbon and renewable energy portfolio. With these two reasons, alongside the fact that an opportunity presented itself for the Faroe Islands to be a global renewable energy leader, the country started developing this solution.Building Blocks
Story
Many different players come together to make the Faroe Islands' resilient energy grid viable. The solution is a product of progress between renewable energy providers, the government, large industry, and most importantly, the Faroese residents. In 2011, about 60 percent of the region’s power came from imported oil. Wind power was only <5% of all energy generation. In only four years the renewable energy generation has risen to approximately 60%. The nation has established an ambitious goal to produce 75 percent of the its electricity from renewable resources by 2020, and 100% by 2030.
Sustainable Development Goals
On September 25th 2015, countries adopted a set of goals to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all as part of a new sustainable development agenda. Each goal has specific targets to be achieved over the next 15 years. This solution covers the following goals:



Video
Social Progress Index
Photos
Resources
- PRESENTATION: Large share of wind power Challenges and innovative solutions
A presentation from Anders Birke of DONG Energy providing a solid overview of the Faroe's energy solutions.
- PRESENATION: Power Hub
A introduction to the Power Hub technology solution, by Terji Nielsen of SEV and Anders Birke of DONG
- The Faroe Islands' Bid for Energy Independence
Article from Discover Magazine
- In the Faroe Islands, Fish Is King
Article from Pacific Standard Magazine
Organisations Involved
Contributed By
- Anders Birke, DONG Energy
Solution Stage
One of the 7 stages of an innovation. Learn moreSTAGE | SPECIALIST SKILLS REQUIRED | EXAMPLE ACTIVITIES | RISK LEVEL AND HANDLING | FINANCE REQUIRED | KINDS OF EVIDENCE GENERATED | GOAL |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Changing systems7 | Strong leadership and management, and identification and traning of new leaders and teams |
|
VARIED |
HIGH | New definitions of and measures for efficiency and impact are created | A transformation in the way we do things |
Submitted By
Bryan Lehrer