Wind power could raise electricity network fees, new analysis warns
A recent NTNU study argues that expanding wind energy will increase network charges for consumers because of higher grid and reserve costs.
An NTNU-led analysis calculates the total societal cost of different power sources, showing that while on-site wind turbines appear cheap, the required grid expansions and reserve power make wind electricity cost 183 øre per kWh, higher than nuclear's 158 øre. The study highlights that network fees, which already represent a major component of household electricity bills, will rise sharply as wind farms need larger transmission lines and backup capacity.
It points out that power producers pay only a minimal fee to inject electricity into the grid, leaving most of the infrastructure cost to consumers. The paper calls on regulators such as NVE and Statnett to assess the full system cost of each technology and make those figures public. It also urges policymakers to ensure that developers who reduce overall system expenses receive appropriate compensation, rather than passing all costs onto users.
Why it matters
Higher network fees could increase household electricity costs as wind power expands.
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