Greenland baseline power systems

Does Greenland have a place-based approach to energy production?

The lack of electricity transmission between urban settlements in Greenland necessitates a place-based approach to energy production. In keeping with this, this case from Greenland is intentionally laid out differently to the others in the Handbook.

How many hydropower plants are in Greenland?

Currently, five hydropower plants are operating on Greenland providing power for the residents in the cities Nuuk, Tasiilaq, Paakitsoq, Qorlortorsuaq, and Sisimiut. The powerplants are run by the national supply company “Nukissiorfiit”. The first hydropower plant was established in 1993.

Does Greenland have a decentralised energy system?

No comprehensive study on Greenland has been found, as existing studies focus on small individual communities. Such studies provide a tailored perspective on decentralised energy systems, considering local climate conditions, energy demand, and quality of local renewable resources.

What is the largest hydroelectric power plant in Greenland?

The Buksefjord hydroelectric power plant is the first and largest hydroelectric power plant in Greenland. It was built by Nuuk-Kraft and it is operated by Nukissiorfiit, Greenland's national energy company. [ 1] In 1984–85, Greenland's energy authority prepared a Greenland's hydroelectricity development program.

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.

Is Greenland a net energy exporter?

Greenland has huge and abundant unexploited hydropower potentials. The energy is stable and environmentally sustainable. Greenland’s enormous untapped hydropower resources exceed our domestic demands many times over, and Greenland has the potential to become a net energy exporter.