HYBES Project Partners Gather in Tórshavn for Sustainability Discussions
The HYBES Project, a collaborative initiative focused on sustainable energy solutions in the Northern Periphery and Arctic (NPA) region, held a crucial partner meeting in Tórshavn, Faroe Islands, from September 10th to 12th, 2024.
Hosted at the Umhvørvisstovan, Tórshavn's Environmental Agency, the gathering brought together representatives from various regions to review progress, exchange insights, and plan future initiatives.
Energy Sustainability
The event kicked off on Tuesday, September 10th, with an opening address by The Faroese Environment Agency, a subsidiary of the Ministry of Environment. Bjarti Thomsen, representing the Agency in the project, presented the nation's energy sustainability efforts, highlighting the challenges and innovations unique to the islands. The Faroe Islands still depend on oil and fossil fuels; up to 30% of the national budget goes to oil acquisition. The Faroese also lack storage for the green energy they produce.
As the meeting progressed, partners examined the lessons from project activities, which focused on building awareness and promoting engagement around sustainable energy solutions and best practices to advance the efforts. Afterwards, the discussion focused on tools for energy monitoring and transition and pilot projects. The project group visited a local biogas plant, providing tangible insights into the Faroese approach to energy transition.
On Wednesday, September 11th, the delegation spent further discussions and site visits, including the Leirvík School and Elderly Home, part of the region's innovative energy installations. Participants also toured a fish factory and the nearby fishing village of Klaksvík, gaining insight into how energy solutions are applied in local industries and communities.
Looking Ahead
On Thursday, September 12th, the meeting's final day, returned to Umhvørvisstovan, where partners engaged in strategic planning for the project's subsequent phases. As the HYBES project moves into its next phase, partners will work to implement the lessons learned and pilot project results across the NPA region. With a strong foundation of collaboration, the project is well-positioned to promote sustainable energy solutions that can be tailored to the unique needs of northern and Arctic communities.
