The power supply in Norway is primarily from hydroelectric power plants. Of the total production in 2004 of 110 TWh, 109 TWh was from hydroelectric plants, 900 GWh was from thermal power, and 260 GWh was wind generated. In 2004 the total consumption was 120 TWh.NVE
Norway has an open electric market, integrated with the other Nordic countries. Export and import is routine over the direct power links to Sweden, Denmark and Germany. The market is handled by Nordpool. Many of the hydroelectric plants in Norway are easily adjustable and can adopt well to variations in demand, and hence in price. On a normal day, when price is low during nighttime, Norway normally imports power, and exports during daytime when price is higher.
A significant share of the total electrical production is consumed by national industry.
During the last years, combination of high power price in the market and less than usual rain, has made the the power system more vulnerable to power shortages. So far consumers in Norway have noted this by paying a higher price for electrical power during wintertime, however still a low price in international terms.
Norway is considered by many to have particular expertise in the area of building and operation of hydroelectric power plants.