Sustainable Energy Resources and Economics in Iceland and Greenland

verfasst von: Helga Kristjánsdóttir

Verlag: Springer International Publishing

Buchreihe : SpringerBriefs in Energy

Enthalten in: Springer Professional "Wirtschaft+Technik" , Springer Professional "Technik"

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Über dieses Buch

This book provides fascinating examples of the ways renewable and sustainable energy can support economic growth, which will be illuminating for academic researchers and students, as well as those interested in green investment opportunities. The distinctive glacial, volcanic and oceanic environments of Iceland and Greenland supply abundant renewable energy resources in the form of hydropower and geothermal energy. As one of the few nations in the world with 100% renewable electricity production, Iceland is a compelling case study of a sustainable energy driven economy. Consideration of Greenland provides an interesting contrast, as its enormous potential for hydropower scale-up has only been minimally harnessed. The variable and fixed cost factors governing further expansion and export of the regions’ sustainable power via sub-sea cable are detailed.

Inhaltsverzeichnis

Frontmatter

Chapter 1. Introduction

Abstract

It is in energy wonderlands where this story starts, in the icy Arctic, where the winter days are dark. The focus is on the countries of Greenland and Iceland, rich in natural resources brought about by nature forces.

Helga Kristjánsdóttir

Chapter 2. The Hydropower Source

Abstract

Greenland and Iceland are rich in renewable energy resources, with climate change increasing energy utilization potentials in Greenland especially. The harnessing of hydropower resources for hydropower production requires power stations, for harnessing energy from the flow of water from reservoir through the power station, and on to transmission lines to the electricity grid for distribution around the country. The energy can be distributed in this way to all types of users from energy intensive ones to conventional home users. Also, potentials are in possible sub-sea cable between the countries continuing to Europe, connecting markets.

Helga Kristjánsdóttir

Chapter 3. Utilization of Renewable and Sustainable Sources: Macro and Micro Economic Perspectives

Abstract

Iceland and Greenland are endowed with abundant hydropower sources, resulting in energy surplus they cannot export directly, requiring energy wholesale in order to take advantage of the abundant natural resource. The economic objective of this current research implies gaining profit from the resource, without diminishing its principal, and therefore without decreasing its potential future utilization. Of paramount importance is to harmonize fair use of the natural resources with reasonable long-term economic gains. Economic geography studies economic activity location, applying agglomeration economies to describe clustering of industries within regions and countries.

Helga Kristjánsdóttir

Chapter 4. Multinational Activities and Foreign Direct Investment

Abstract

Investment made by investors in a foreign country can be of several types. It is a portfolio investment when less than 10 %, however classified as foreign direct investment when 10 % or more. Foreign direct investment flow measures the net incoming investment in the country, however foreign direct investment stock capture the accumulated investment made over many years. By undertaking foreign direct investment, firms become multinationals. Foreign direct investment enterprises may, for example, be in the form of subsidiaries, associates or branches.

Helga Kristjánsdóttir

Chapter 5. The Geothermal Source

Abstract

The geothermal source has for a long time played an important role, not least in the Icelandic economy. In the early days it was used for bathing and washing, and later for heating homes and energy production. One of the best known geothermal phenomena in Iceland is the Blue Lagoon, on Reykjanes peninsula in the south west of Iceland. Swimming pools receiving warmth from geothermal resources are all around the country, in almost every community, used for teaching, and even serving as a meeting place for people to socialize.

Helga Kristjánsdóttir

Chapter 6. Other Unconventional Energy Sources

Abstract

Renewable energy is the energy obtained from resources that renew themselves naturally. These include hydropower, geothermal, solar, wind, biofuels and ocean resources. Sustainable energy refers to the energy provision that can be sustained without hurting potential future provision of energy. Green energy is the energy that can be extracted, generated, as well as consumed without impacting the environment.

Helga Kristjánsdóttir

Backmatter

Titel: Sustainable Energy Resources and Economics in Iceland and Greenland
verfasst von: Helga Kristjánsdóttir
Verlag: Springer International Publishing
Electronic ISBN: 978-3-319-15174-8
Print ISBN: 978-3-319-15173-1
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-15174-8