The Norwegian Parliament (Stortinget) has voted to adopt three contested EU energy directives, ending months of political tension that led to a government crisis earlier this year. The decision brings Norway closer to the EU’s Clean Energy for All Europeans package, despite significant internal opposition.
A vote that reopens political wounds
The approved measures include the Renewable Energy Directive, the Energy Performance of Buildings Directive, and the Energy Efficiency Directive. These were at the centre of the political dispute that led to the collapse of cooperation between the Labour Party (Arbeiderpartiet) and the Centre Party (Senterpartiet) in January.
On Friday, a clear majority in Stortinget voted in favour of incorporating the directives into Norwegian law. The Labour Party led the support, joined by the Conservative Party (Høyre), the Christian Democrats (Kristelig Folkeparti), the Liberal Party (Venstre), and the Green Party (Miljøpartiet De Grønne). Opposition came mainly from the Centre Party, the Red Party (Rødt), and the Progress Party (Fremskrittspartiet).
Only part of the EU package to be implemented
The three directives form part of a broader package of eight EU laws aimed at accelerating the energy transition and reducing greenhouse gas emissions across Europe. However, Norway has opted to adopt only these three, leaving the remaining five on hold until at least the next parliamentary term.
Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre previously stated that further adoption of the package is unlikely unless the political landscape changes. This position was reiterated by Minister of Energy Terje Aasland, who defended the government’s stance during a lengthy and often emotional parliamentary debate.
Heated debate highlights deep divisions
Friday’s vote followed a prolonged session marked by strong criticism from opposition parties. A total of 37 speeches were delivered, with the Centre Party particularly vocal in its opposition. The debate underscored enduring tensions over Norwegian sovereignty, EU influence, and energy policy priorities.
In his closing remarks, Minister Aasland acknowledged the complexity of the debate: “It is interesting and a bit confusing to follow the discussion, but it is important to let those most strongly opposed express their views first, and then try to clarify what we believe is important.”
The decision to move forward with these directives marks a significant, albeit partial, shift in Norway’s energy policy and its relationship with EU regulatory frameworks.
