British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is visiting Norway to unveil plans for a new green energy partnership. The trip aims to boost energy security and growth before Starmer joins European leaders for defence talks in Estonia.
Green Energy Collaboration with Norway
During his visit to Norway, Starmer will meet with Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and tour a cross-border carbon capture project. The energy deal, expected to be signed in spring 2025, aims to protect the UK from volatile energy prices and enhance carbon capture technology.
“This partnership will harness the UK’s potential in carbon capture, support our industrial regions, and shield us from energy price spikes caused by dictators like Putin,” said Starmer. The deal also promises to revitalize the UK’s energy infrastructure and improve energy security.
The announcement follows significant investments by BP and Norwegian energy firm Equinor in UK carbon capture projects. Additionally, the Green Volt offshore wind farm, led by Vargronn and Flotation Energy, plans to provide power for one million homes by 2028.
Norwegian Prime Minister Støre emphasized the importance of international cooperation: “Our partnership with the UK will drive green innovation and create jobs in both countries.”
Defence Summit in Estonia
After the Norway visit, Starmer and Støre will travel to Tallinn, Estonia, for a summit of the Joint Expeditionary Force (JEF), a UK-led military coalition of 10 European countries. The coalition includes the Netherlands, Latvia, Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, Finland, and Lithuania.
The summit will focus on the JEF’s role in addressing Europe’s evolving security landscape, especially in light of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The JEF, founded in 2014, works alongside NATO to ensure regional security and military preparedness.
Starmer’s trip underscores the UK’s commitment to energy security and defence cooperation in a rapidly changing world.