Norwegian farmers want solar but need support

Norway is working hard to increase its solar energy production, and farmers nationwide could play a key role in helping the nation reach its climate goals. Many are interested in using their land and buildings to produce solar power, but they say they need more support to make it happen.

The green shift in agriculture is progressing, but progress is slower than many had hoped. High upfront costs, a lack of financial incentives, and limited grid access are some barriers holding farmers back from going solar.

A big opportunity for solar energy in Norway

The Norwegian Parliament has set a goal to develop at least 8 terawatt hours (TWh) of new solar power by 2030. That’s a major increase from current levels. According to a report by Multiconsult, commissioned by the organisation Norges Vel, installing solar panels on agricultural buildings alone could provide between 5 and 7 TWh of electricity every year.

That would make a significant contribution to the country’s energy needs. Solar panels on farms could help reduce Norway’s reliance on other energy sources, lower emissions, and create more sustainable farming practices.

The financial challenge

Despite the interest, many farmers cannot afford solar installations. Setting up a solar power system involves high initial costs, and the return on investment is often slow, especially when energy prices are low or grid infrastructure needs upgrading.

In Norway, private homeowners can receive financial support from Enova to install solar panels. However, similar support for farmers and agricultural buildings is limited or unclear, making it harder for those in the farming sector to participate in the green energy shift.

Another challenge is related to the national power grid. When farms produce more energy than they use, the extra power must be sent into the grid. If upgrades are needed to handle that extra electricity, the cost often falls on the farmer, which adds another financial burden.

Government engagement

Norwegian authorities have shown a growing interest in how farming can contribute to renewable energy goals. Recently, state representatives visited farms already using solar power to learn more about what’s working and what isn’t.

Officials from both the Ministry of Climate and Environment and the Ministry of Agriculture and Food have acknowledged that better cooperation between the government and the farming industry is essential. Current financial structures may need to be reviewed and adjusted to support climate-friendly investments in agriculture.

There is hope that new tools and policies will be introduced to encourage more farmers to invest in solar, mainly as Norway works to meet both its environmental targets and its growing energy demands.

Raising awareness

In 2025, a new project called “Klimabuzz” will travel across Norway to highlight positive climate and environmental efforts in agriculture. The goal is to spread awareness, share success stories, and show how farmers can become key players in Norway’s transition to a greener future.

The initiative hopes to inspire the public and policymakers to support renewable energy in rural areas by showcasing the benefits of solar energy and promoting real-world examples.

Farmers need help to be part of the solution

Norwegian farms have strong potential to produce large amounts of solar energy, enough to power homes, communities, and parts of the national grid. But right now, many farmers face too many obstacles to get involved.

They need clearer policies, more substantial financial incentives, and a fairer system for connecting to the power grid. Most importantly, they must know they are not being asked to take responsibility alone.

Norway’s green energy goals are ambitious, and farmers can help make them a reality. But the support has to go both ways.

If the right conditions are implemented, farms across the country could become part of the solution, contributing clean, renewable power while continuing to feed the nation.