The Nordic region has substantial clean energy resources, especially hydropower and wind. The sustainable utilisation of these resources can contribute to achieving EU climate targets. Firstly, clean power can be exported to displace more emission-intensive generation. In 2017 net Nordic exports were 11 TWh, with Norway exporting 15 TWh and Sweden 20 TWh. This is set to increase with deployment of wind power in the Nordics and a number of transmission cables under construction and planning. Secondly, dispatchable hydropower in the Nordics can provide balancing services to help integrate variable renewables. This potential was explored in the IEA/NER report Nordic Energy Technology Perspectives 2016.

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