Integration of Solar PV in a Norwegian Energy System, Navigating the Trade-offs between Land Use and Solar Power Production

In recent years, the expansion of renewable energy sources (RES) has accelerated, with solar photovoltaic (PV) poised to play a central role in future energy systems. However, this growth has led to rising tensions over land use conflicts, along with growing concerns about biodiversity loss and environmental degradation. This study assesses land use requirements across various renewable energy scenarios for Norway, highlighting tradeoffs between spatial demands and system configurations. Results show a wide range of land use needs, from 18.43 to 5149 km2 , depending on the scenario and metric applied. Our findings emphasize the importance of consistent land use metrics and the integration of socio-economic factors in energy planning. As RES deployment intensifies, strategic planning is essential to protect ecosystems and maintain public support, both critical for achieving climate targets.