Challenges for Norway’s premier will persist

Significance

Among several factors, voters are disillusioned over persistent inflationary pressures and rising interest rates. The government’s image has also been damaged by its handling of a Supreme Court ruling in 2021 that two wind farms in central Norway violated the rights of the Sami indigenous community.

Impacts

• The Supreme Court ruling affects other projects, including mining and power transmission lines.
• Despite large public protests, the government is likely to continue abiding by EU energy regulations.
• The controversy around onshore wind farms and the need to stop burning gas will drive Oslo to expand offshore wind power significantly.