Time to set clear priorities in green road freight

The transport sector accounts for 28% of Norway’s total CO₂ emissions, with half of that coming from heavy goods vehicles (HGVs). The need for change is urgent and wide-reaching. Yet in the midst of this critical transition, we’re seeing a trend that risks slowing progress rather than accelerating it: we are trying to invest in everything, everywhere, all at once.

Electricity, hydrogen, biogas – and even fossil diesel under increasingly strict Euro standards – are all being presented as viable solutions. Each has its strengths. But if we attempt to build parallel infrastructure for all energy carriers in all locations, we risk spreading resources so thinly that momentum is lost – and with it, meaningful progress.

Time to focus

This debate isn’t about choosing a single winner. It’s about strategic prioritisation: where do each of these solutions deliver the greatest climate benefit, societal value and industrial development?

Can we map out more clearly where electric vehicles should be prioritised, where hydrogen makes the most sense, and where biogas – or even advanced biodiesel – can still play a valid role? Without such clarity, we risk standing at a crossroads with no signage – unable to choose a direction, and unlikely to arrive in time.

Different solutions for different needs

There is a real opportunity to differentiate based on transport type and context:

• Electric HGVs are becoming a viable solution for distribution and regional haulage, particularly where charging infrastructure is available and journey patterns are predictable. How can we ensure the power grid, charging facilities and pricing models are aligned to support this shift?
• Hydrogen has been identified by the EU as a key solution for the heaviest and longest-distance freight. It offers high energy density and short refuelling times, but relies on a safe and reliable supply and distribution system. Is it wise to prioritise hydrogen in Norway when vehicle manufacturers, infrastructure developers and producers remain cautious?
• Biogas already benefits from a growing infrastructure and can be highly effective in areas with access to organic waste and established production systems. Is it merely a transitional fuel – or a long-term part of the solution?
• Fossil diesel, even in its Euro VI version, must be phased out as zero-emission alternatives mature. However, it will still play a role during the transition – particularly in international transport. Norway is well positioned to accelerate the shift away from diesel, but how might that affect the competitiveness of Norwegian freight operators?

A need for national direction

What we need now is a clear national strategy that defines both geographical and functional priorities for each energy source. This would make it easier for industries to invest, for public authorities to plan infrastructure, and for technology developers to focus their efforts.

The haulage sector has already shown a strong willingness to adapt. What we owe them – and the climate – is direction, not just options. Otherwise, the ambition to embrace every technology at once could leave us stalled – with costly infrastructure, hesitant investors and missed opportunities.

Join the debate

At Arendalsuka, we’re bringing these critical questions to the table – gathering voices from industry, policy and environmental organisations. With Bård Stranheim as moderator, you can expect a candid and engaging discussion with clear opinions and diverse perspectives.

Panellists

• Bjørn Eldar Petersen, CEO, ENRX – leading innovation in wireless charging solutions for HGVs
• Pål Smits, CEO, Lindum – an outspoken advocate for biogas and circular energy solutions
• Jan Carsten Gjerløw, Senior Adviser, Norwegian Hydrogen Forum – with deep insight into hydrogen’s opportunities and limitations
• Ove Myrvåg, Director, Norwegian Public Roads Administration – with an inside view on regulation and infrastructure
• Frederic Hauge, founder of Bellona – challenging both politicians and industries to take bolder action
• Jone Blikra, Member of Parliament (Labour) – drawing on experience from the Transport and Communications Committee
• Nina Thomassen, Head of Retail Operations, St1 Norway – with a strong understanding of the fuel market and the importance of joined-up policy
• Renate Tårnes, Head of Communications, Norwegian Truck Owners’ Association – sharing the industry's perspective on what hauliers really need

Welcome!

Venue: Rooftop Terrace, Arendals Fossekompani, Langbryggen 9

Date & time: Wednesday 13 August 2025, 13:00–14:00