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The Norwegian government disburses billions of kroner in power subsidies and defends this expenditure with households needing security in uncertain times. Some politicians argue the state has resources to support consumers as rising energy prices increase public income. In a written response to Rødts Sofie Marhaug, Finance Minister Jens Stoltenberg reported how the state received income from the power sector in recent years.

The Crown emphasizes that these estimates are uncertain. The response letter, dated August 25th, highlighted figures cited by Europower. Energy market volatility remains a concern. In the autumn, electricity prices in southern Norway surged following a period of low water levels in reservoirs and insufficient gas in European gas fields.

In recent years, multiple crises have occurred, and the state has allocated hundreds of millions in support alongside the COVID-19 pandemic and power subsidies for households. The Storting also temporarily reduced fuel taxes in response to rising diesel and gasoline prices. Despite the outflow of state electricity revenues, power subsidies for households exceed the outflow.

State subsidies for Norwegian electricity have surpassed initial expectations, with Volue forecasting a potential fall next year due to reduced electricity prices. However, in the worst-case scenario of extreme drought, the system could cost 55 billion in 2027, according to Volue. The Norgespris is maintained because price fluctuations can occur, stated Mani Hussaini (Ap) of the Storting Energy and Environment Committee to E24 last month.

The state, counties, and municipalities also receive more income when electricity prices are high, as they have significant public ownership in the power sector, Hussaini added. From 2027, the level of Norgespris may be adjusted from the current 50 øre including VAT, but many of the government's support parties oppose this. The fixed-price Norgespris system has faced criticism from solar panel, heat pump, and battery manufacturers who have complained to Efta's supervisory body ESA.

In Marhaug's letter, the Finance Minister reported on the government's expenditures and revenues related to high electricity prices. He pointed out that hydroelectric power pays various taxes, including company, basic, property, and concession fees. From 2022 to 2023, there was also a temporary extra tax called the high-price contribution.

Wind power pays company tax, basic tax, property tax, and production tax. Statkraft and Statnett also pay taxes to the state. Positive aspects for the public include higher electricity prices, according to the Finance Department. Negative aspects include the burdens on the power grid if businesses are shielded from high prices. Estimates suggest businesses paid 580 billion in electricity from 2022 to mid-2026, 234 billion more than the previous period.

However, some experts criticize the idea of subsidizing the business sector when prices are unfavorable, arguing that they should also pay more when prices are favorable.