When looking for an energy conscious country, Norway is often one of the first to be mentioned. 99% of Norway's electricity comes from hydropower (EIA 2002). Hydropower has proven an efficient resource because of the abundant waterways, in particular the steep slope from the mountain peaks to the coasts. This altitudinal difference makes for great waterfalls and natural dams to reign in this power. However, even though hydropower is usually thought of as a renewable resource, the Norwegians have maxed out some its highest sources. Notably, one of the highest waterfalls now runs dry because of the extensive overuse (Ham & Roddis 2005). Most of the available waterpower is being used thus further energy needs will have to come from alternate sources.

            Norway's oil and natural gas production are relatively new on the global scene. They became a major source of oil (notably not OPEC controlled) in the late 1980s- early 1990s. However, despite the oil company's investment in enhanced oil recovery technology, the area has already seen its peak in exported oil in 2003 (EIA 2007) and will slowly subside even with the addition of maturing sources and newly discovered areas. Because Norway is largely powered by its own hydropower, most of what they produce is exported.

          Norway's open coastline places it in a vulnerable environmental position because it exposes it to several international problems, namely air and water pollution. The large waterway is heavily traveled by oil freighters between the Baltic region and Russia. Additionally, Norway's own off shore oil production contributes to possible oil pollution of the waterways. It also is exposed to transient air pollution and radioactive waste from the former Soviet Union region. Being downstream from several countries, the majority of its air pollution comes from emissions in these other states (RRI ). However, Norway is pro-actively working with its European and Nordic neighbors on cooperative agreements for air pollution regulations and common clean up in the event of a radioactive waste spill (RRI)