Is solar feasible in Greenland?

In this work we investigate potential solar feasibility in Greenland using the village of Qaanaaq, Greenland as a case study to demonstrate several optimized energy scenarios. 1.1. Alternative energy in the arctic Both wind turbines and solar photovoltaic (PV) are mature technologies.

What is the primary energy mix of Greenland?

As presented in Fig. 2, the primary energy mix of Greenland changes notably between 2019 and 2050. In the reference scenario, oil constitutes around 80% of the primary energy consumption, with the rest being supplied mainly by hydropower.

How much energy is needed in Greenland in 2050?

In 2050, curtailment of about 4% of the total electricity generation is required, a value known if three renewable resources complement each other in a sector coupled energy system . In the reference system, a major share of heating in Greenland is supplied by district heating, which is dominant in larger towns.

What is Greenland's primary source of energy?

Historically, Greenland’s primary source of energy has been imported fossil fuels. However, times change and 55–60% of Greenland’s energy in recent decades came from renewable resources.

What challenges does Greenland face?

A major challenge in Greenland is the lack of a coherent energy transmission system, which means that the Greenland energy supply system is based on individual island operation systems, with a need for backup capacity in every community. This set-up presents challenges when relying upon unpredictable sources of energy such as solar and wind.

Should Greenland invest in solar energy?

Even without a change in the one-price model, government investment in solar energy for communities around Greenland will lower Nukissiorfiit’s dependence on fossil fuel which would help to reduce the associated large ongoing deficits incurred by Nukissiorfiit . Table 8. Annual cost savings in USD/ Year for Solar–BES–diesel hybrid scenarios.