Abstract
In December 2008 the EU finally agreed upon a Directive to promote an increased share of energy consumption from renewable sources (the RES Directive). The present report assesses Norwegian stakeholders' mobilisation as to the formulation of the RES Directive. Although the European Economic Area (EEA) Agreement provides Norway with opportunities for influence during early phases of EU decision-making, this was not considered as feasible by the Ministry in charge. The controversial nature of both the future energy policies in balancing renewables versus petroleum interests, and Norway's relationship with the EU, contributes to explain the lack of clear, public Norvegian position vis-a-vis the formulation of the RES-Directive. Despite the lack of a clear, public position, some of Norway's major industrial companies have aimed to influence certain aspects of the EU RES Directive. The report also assesses an emerging political and technological cooperation on off-shore wind power between Norway and the EU, with the potential of engaging both public and non-public actors. The case of off-shore wind can be an arena for improved cooperation. The report ends with recommendations on improved strategies for the promotion of Norwegian RES interests vis-a-vis the Eu.
