Main Topics

Main topics

Conference Theme: Navigating the Green Energy Transition in the Arctic – Charting a Path for Responsible Governance for Thriving Northern Communities

Key breakout session topics and potential sub-topics (Each organized breakout session could cover/focus on one to two sub-topics).

1) Sustainable energy development and Green transition of (Arctic) societies - (regions, cities, youth, indigenous groups).

  • People and peoples of the Arctic
  • Sustainable socio-economic development as the key to resilient Arctic communities
  • Education, innovation, youth involvement
  • Citizen engagement as a driver in sustainable societies development
  • Promoting strategic thinking and fostering innovation
  • Arctic climate - How to adapt and become resilient
  • Cooperation and increased knowledge on marine issues

2) Energy as a driver in responsible, knowledge-driven, sustainable economic growth

  • The balance between economic growth and conservation of fragile Arctic ecosystems
  • Effective management of the ecological risks in the context of rising economic and human activities in the Arctic
  • Information and data for responsible policy and knowledge-driven economic development growth
  • Sustainable Arctic Shipping
  • Green Energy Solutions
  • Project support instruments/financing mechanisms

3) Cooperation for responsible energy and Green transitions in the Arctic and Global context

  • Arctic Council and Observer states
  • Arctic Economic Council
  • Regional and local engagement

Special Topics:

  • An Integrated Approach to Energy and Sustainable Development in the National Interest
  • Arctic Energy Resources: Legal and Political Developments

Training and Education:

  • Geothermal Training Program and other similar programs - Lessons learned and opportunities
  • Arctic Remote Energy Network Academy (ARENA)
  • Arctic Renewable Energy Atlas (AREA)
  • UArctic Thematic Network on Renewable Energy: Community Appropriate Sustainable Energy Security (CASES)

Agenda

Conference schedule and structure

Conference Theme: Navigating the Green Energy Transition in the Arctic – Charting a Path for Responsible Governance for Thriving Northern Communities

(last updated 11. September 2024)

Monday 14.10.2024

08:15 - 09:00 - Registration and Coffee/Networking

09:00 - 10:15 - Conference Opening, keynote speeches, and panel discussions in the HAMRABORG Auditorium

  • Opening Address by Organizers - Dr. Jeremy Kasper, Director, ACEP
  • Opening keynote speech by Kalistad Lund Greenland Energy Minister followed by a Q&A session
  • Plenary session with:

Moderator: Halla Hrund Logadóttir, Director, National Energy Authority of Iceland

Panelists/Presenters:

  • Curtis Thayer, Director, Alaska Energy Authority
  • Ríkarður Ríkarðsson, EVP of Business Development and Innovation, Landsvirkjun
  • Dr. Erin Whitney, Director, Arctic Energy Office DoE

10:15 - 10:45 - Bio Break - Networking - Coffee

10:45 - 12:15 - Concurrent break-out sessions slot #1

Session Track 1: Data collection, presentation interpretation, and sharing: (BLACKBOX)

This session will enhance understanding of the importance of Arctic energy data sets and their prospects. Learn about how Arctic regions can get better usage of the available data or find out where more or new data is needed for energy development.

Moderator:  Leasi Vanessa Lee Raymond, ACEP

Panelists / Presenters:

  • Speaker/Presenter: Halldór Jóhannsson, Arctic Portal
  • Speaker/Presenter: Leasi Vanessa Lee Raymond, ACEP
  • Speaker/Presenter: Dr. Diane Hirshberg, Director of the University of Alaska Anchorage
  • Speaker/Presenter: Jón Ásgeir Haukdal Þorvaldsson, National Energy Authority of Iceland

Session Track 2: Sharing Solutions to Shared Challenges: Potentials for Icelandic-Alaskan Partnership. (HAMRAR)

Organizer: Icelandic Arctic Cooperation Network - IACN

While the Arctic is warming faster than the rest of the planet, it also offers potential for solving energy and climate challenges. Arctic communities are developing solutions that can benefit other remote areas. This session will explore how cooperation between regions like Alaska and Iceland can advance clean energy, energy efficiency, and climate adaptation, guiding renewable energy projects through shared knowledge and community engagement

Moderators:

  • Aaron Cooke, NREL
  • Dr. Ottó Elíasson, Eimur

Panelists / Presenters:

  • Bruno Grunau, NREL
  • Jeremy Kasper, ACEP
  • Bjarni Pálsson, Landsvirkjun
  • Guðmundur Sigurðarson, Vistorka
  • Finnur Beck, Samorka
  • Donna Kamarei, U.S. Embassy Science Fellow
  • Albertína F. Elíasdóttir, SSNE

12:15 - 13:00 - Lunch, provided in Hof Conference Center

13:00 - 14:30 - Arctic Energy Futures: Strategic Approaches for a Sustainable Arctic Tomorrow. (HAMRABORG)

In a rapidly evolving Arctic, the energy landscape presents both significant challenges and unprecedented opportunities. This plenary roundtable gathers visionary leaders from across the region to explore how Arctic nations navigate this complex terrain of energy futures. The discussion will focus on benefiting communities through local resource development, technological innovation, forward-thinking policies, and securing financing in an environment with high costs and limited economies of scale.

Keynote: Dr. Catherine Giessel, Alaska State Senate

Moderator: Dr. Michael McEleney, Arctic Energy Office - US Department of Energy

Panelists:

  • Dr. Catherine Giessel, Alaska State Senate
  • Dr. Peter Larsen, Lawrence Berkley National Laboratory
  • Geir Oddsson, Director of Environmental Affairs at Iceland Foreign Ministry

14:40 - 16:00 - Three concurrent break-out sessions #2

Track 1: Carbon Capture and Sequestration: Are Arctic regions leading the way? (BLACKBOX)

This session will explore how Arctic regions are advancing carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) technologies and their role in global climate change mitigation. We will discuss the opportunities and challenges of implementing CCS in the Arctic, highlighting innovative projects and the potential for these regions to lead in sustainable carbon management

Moderator and remarks on CCS from a global perspective: Sveinborg Hlíf Gunnarsdóttir, Director ISOR

Panelists/Presenters:

  • Gwen Holdmann, UAF/ACEP
  • Hallgrímur Óskarsson, Carbon Iceland
  • Kristinn Ingi Lárusson, CarbFix
  • Katrín Ragnarsdóttir, COWI

Track 2: Powering the Future: Arctic Applications for Emerging Energy Technologies. (HAMRAR)

This breakout session will explore a range of emerging energy technologies with potential applications in the Arctic. Join us to discuss how these innovations can address the region's unique challenges and drive future sustainable energy development.

Moderator: Dr. Robert Leland, Sandia National Laboratories

Panelists/Presenters:

  • Dr. Jeremy Kasper, ACEP – Ocean and River Energy
  • María Kristín Þrastardóttir & Óskar Svavarsson – Sidewind
  • Dr. Jill Lauren Hass – Polar Knowledge Canada/Savoir Polaire Canada
  • Ragnar Ásmundsson - National Energy Authority of Iceland

Track 3: Hydrogen: Reality or Fiction. Hydrogen has been touted as the clean, green fuel of the future, but its implementation has seen mixed results. In the Arctic, however, some of the most successful hydrogen projects are taking shape. (NAUST)

This session will explore these successes and discuss how lessons from the Arctic can inform broader hydrogen strategies.

Moderator: Dr. Erin Whitney, Director, Arctic Energy Office DoE

Panelists/Presenters:

  • Ole Aune Ødegård, Nordic Energy Research - Nordic Hydrogen Valleys, opportunities in the Arctic
  • James Stevens, Tribal Administrator, Atka tribe - Atka Hydrogen fuel production
  • Jack Davis, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

16:00 - 16:30 - Bio Break - Networking - Coffee Break

16:30 - 18:00 - Two concurrent break-out sessions #3

Track 1: Innovations and Strategies in Energy Development: (BLACKBOX)

Join us to explore cutting-edge case studies and approaches in energy development from across the Arctic. Researchers and practitioners will share insights on the latest innovations and strategies driving sustainable energy solutions in some of the world’s most challenging environments.

Moderator: Dr. Greg Poelzer, Professor, University of Saskatchewan

Panelists/Presenters:

  • Ditte Stougaard Stiler, Nordic Energy Research - Explore the chill: Building a sustainable energy future
  • Emily He, Pembina Institute - Clean energy process in Canada's remote and Indigenous communities
  • Tim Kalke, USsak, General Manager at SEGA Alaska
  • Dr. Cary Bloyd, Pacific North-West National Laboratory - Clean energy lessons from islanded grids

Track 2: Energy transition pathways: (HAMRAR)

This session will focus on different energy transition pathways for remote communities, including economic, technical, and political aspects. Researchers and key stakeholders will highlight various examples of energy transition in remote communities, ranging from a circumpolar level to community-based cases such as Longyearbyen

Moderator: Dr. Magnus De Witt, ACEP/UAF

Panelist/Presenter:

  • Dr. Magnus de Witt, ACEP/UAF – Energy transitions pathways
  • Dr. Mari Juel, SINTEF - sustainable energy technology
  • Albert Alonso Villar, Reykjavík University - A transition towards a 100% electric Heavy-Duty Vehicle fleet in Iceland: Feasibility and impact assessment of the charging load on the transmission and distribution system
  • Þorsteinn Másson, Blámi
  • Håkon Duus, Multiconsult, Troll station Antarctica

18:00 - 18:10 - Bio break – Get to busses for excursion

18:10 - 20:00 - Excursion around Akureyri by bus

20:00 - 22:00 - Gala dinner at conference facilities

 

Tuesday 15.10.2024

08:15 - 09:00 - Coffee and Networking

09:00 - 10:45 - Panel discussions in the HAMRABORG Auditorium

Introduction: Gwen Holdmann ACEP/UAF

Inspirational Talks: Hearing from energy leaders of tomorrow

  • Speaker 1: Jóhanna Auðunsdóttir, Landsvirkjun
  • Speaker 2: Leasi Vanessa Lee Raymond, ACEP

Iceland’s Recipe for Success: A Dialogue on Energy Leadership: Join us for an engaging conversation between Gwen Holdmann and Halla Hrund Logadottir, Director of Iceland’s National Energy Regulatory Authority, as they discuss Iceland’s remarkable journey in energy development. In this dialogue, they will explore the key factors behind Iceland’s success in harnessing renewable energy, the lessons learned, and the strategic decisions shaping the nation's energy future. This intimate exchange will provide valuable insights into how Iceland's energy story can inspire innovation and collaboration across the Arctic.

10:45 - 11:15 - Bio Break - Networking Break - Coffee

11:15 - 12:45 - Concurrent break-out sessions slot #4

Track 1: Training Arctic Energy Leaders: Human capacity is one of the Arctic’s greatest resources. (HAMRAR)

This session will explore how building local expertise and fostering knowledge-sharing networks across the Arctic are essential for sustainable energy development. Join us for a conversation to explore diverse approaches to training the current and next generation of Arctic energy leaders.

Moderator: Annalise Klein, UAF/ACEP – ARENA and ELA

Panelists/Presenters: 

  • Anna Martz, US Department of State - The US perspective on international collaboration in Arctic energy
  • Annalise Klein, UAF/ACEP – ARENA and ELA
  • Dr. Elaina Guilmette, USask - Masters of Energy Security Program
  • Málfríður Ómarsdóttir, GRÓ Geothermal Training Programme  Iceland
  • Juliet Ann Newson, Iceland School of Energy

Track 2: Resilient Infrastructure: Adapting Buildings to Extreme Arctic Conditions. (BLACKBOX)

This session focuses on the challenges of building and infrastructure in the Arctic, where extreme weather conditions demand innovative solutions. We will discuss strategies for designing resilient infrastructure that can withstand harsh environments, with a focus on safety, durability, and comfort.

Moderator: Dr. Alexander Zhivov, US Army Engineer Research and Development Center

Panelists/Presenters:

  • Dr. Alexander Zhivov - Energy resilience of buildings in remote cold regions
  • Dominique Pride UAF/ACEP - Electrifying heating loads using renewables at scale
  • Prof. Eva Möller, DTU
  • Dr. Taro Mori, Hokkaido University - Energy crisis events in north most island of Hokkaido, Japan

12:45 - 13:30 - Lunch, provided in Hof Conference Center

13:30 - 15:00 - Panel discussions in the HAMRABORG Auditorium

The New Frontier of Geothermal Energy - While geothermal energy has long been considered a mature technology, recent innovations are pushing its boundaries. Iceland is leading the way in ultra-high-temperature geothermal, while new developments in lower-temperature systems are making geothermal more accessible across a wider geographic area, particularly for heating. Join us to explore these exciting advances and their potential to reshape energy landscapes globally.

Moderator: Dr. Guðjón Helgi Eggertsson, Specialist Operation Resources, Landsvirkjun

Panelists/Presenters:

  • Dr. Guðjón Helgi Eggertsson, Specialist Operation Resources, Landsvirkjun
  • Björn Guðmundsson, Krafla Magma Testbed CEO - Establishing the World's First Magma Observatory
  • Arna Pálsdóttir, Head of Resource Innovation, Orkuveitan

15:00 - 15:30 - Bio Break - Networking - Coffee

15:30 - 17:00 - Panel discussions in HAMRABORG Auditorium

Unlocking Investment and Business Development in Arctic Energy: The Arctic region holds immense potential for energy innovation, but realizing this potential requires strategic business development and investment. This plenary session will bring together key stakeholders—industry leaders, investors, and policymakers—to explore the unique opportunities and challenges of Arctic energy markets. Discussions will focus on pathways to attract investment, foster entrepreneurship, and build sustainable business models that meet the region’s energy needs while driving economic growth.

Moderator: Mads Frederiksen, Director of Arctic Economy Council

Panelists/Presenters:

  • Dr. Greg Poelzer, Professor USsak Canada
  • Clay Koplin, Chair, Alaska Energy Authority, CEO Cordova Electric Cooperative
  • Kristín Helga Schiöth, CEO Líforka

17:00 - 17:30 - HAMRABORG Auditorium

Closing session

  • Gwen Holdmann, ACEP/UAF
  • Ambassador Patman, Closing remarks
  • Minister Þórðarson, Closing remarks
  • Gwen Holdmann, ACEP/UAF closes the event

17:30 - Reception at Hof Conference Center

 

Wednesday 16.10.2024

08:15 - 09:00 - Coffee and Networking

09:00 - 12:00 - US-Iceland Energy and Climate Expert Introductory Meeting”, Organized by U.S. Department of Energy and Iceland's Ministry of the Environment, Energy and Climate -Invite Only.

Transfer to Reykjavík for those attending the Arctic Circle.

Option 1: Travel by air. Transfer to airport: departure times 12:20, 16:45, 19:45

Option 2: Educational and scenic transfer by bus to Reykjavík. Depart at 09:00, arrive in Reykjavík around 19:30:

09:00 - 11:00 - Drive to Blönduvirkjun

11:00 - 13:00 - Excursion of the hydro station and lunch

13:00 - 15:30 - Drive to Deildartunguhver

15:30 - 16:30 - Excursion and health stop at Deildartunguhver and Krauma Spa

16:30 - 17:00 - Drive to Grundartangi

17:00 - 18:30 - Excursion of either factory and health stop

18:30 - 19:30 - Drive to Reykjavík downtown for hotel check-in

 

Pre Tour

Pre-conference optional tour

Education & Policy Tour is offered on October 12 & 13th. The tour offers a unique opportunity to learn first hand about energy and sustainable development in Northern Iceland and how small communities are adapting to new realities, utilizing the latest technologies. See the Agenda below.

The cost of the tour is USD 350. It includes the guided tour on the 12 and 13, reception on the 12, a visit to the Forest Lagoon spa in the evening on the 12, and lunch on Sunday the 13.

Register for the pre-tour when registering for the conference using the registration form. If you have any questions or issues please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 

 

Agenda

 

Saturday 12.10.2024

Collage Akureyri landscape

      • Arrive in Akureyri
        • Domestic flights from Reykjavík arrive in Akureyri at 8:50 and 12:50. Book your own flight on www.flugfelag.is 
        • Conference Bus - departs Keflavík airport at 7:15 for the domestic airport (in time for arrival by registered passengers) and/or all the way to Akureyri if participation is high and flights not available. Arrive in Akureyri by 14:00. Book your bus transfer via the logistics registration form.
        • For those arriving early in Akureyri, a walk around town will be organized on Saturday morning if weather and attendance permits!
      • Afternoon program 15:00 - 18:30
        • In depth visits to energy facilities in the Akureyri area escorted by professionals, including the new domestic Hydro station, in-depth introduction to the Methane capturing process and its utilization on domestic vehicles, recharging facilities, energy driven industry at the data center and more.
      • Reception, introduction and discussions with the locals - 18:30 - 20:30
      • Enjoy the evening and relax in the Forest lagoon by Akureyri - 21:00 - 23:30

 

Sunday 13.10.2024

Collage Excursion Myvatn

      •  Excursion - departure at 9:00
        • Learn about the evolution in the utilization of geothermal energy. Visit the oldest geothermal station from 1968 in Bjarnarflag by Mývatn, Krafla the 60 MW station geothermal station opened in 1978 and learn about the potential of Deep Drilling. From Krafla the tour goes to Theistareykir, the latest geothermal station opened in 2017 with a capacity of 200 MW.
        • From Theistareykir to Húsavík to visit the Silicon Metal factory PCC and the small scale hydro factory Köldukvíslarvirkjun.
        • Stops will be made during the tour at scenic stops like Goðafoss, Dimmuborgir, and Hveraröndin and in the Vaðlaheiði tunnel to feel the heat!
      • Arrive in Akureyri by 19:00+

Confirmed Sessions

      • Arctic Energy Training programs, ARENA, GTP and the new ELA - Annalise Klein (ACEP)
      • Arctic Energy Data - Collection, Sharing, Presentation and Interpretation - Halldor Johannsson (Arctic Portal - ACEP)
      • Energy Resilience of the Buildings in Remote Cold Regions - Alexander Zhivov (US Army ERDC-CERL)
      • The road to green energy transition in the Arctic! - Erin Whitney (DOE AEO)
      • Clean energy progress in Canada’s remote and Indigenous communities - Emily He (Pembina Institute)
      • Energy Transition Models - Magnus De Witt(ACEP)
      • Sharing Solutions to Shared Challenges: Potentials for Icelandic-Alaskan Partnership - Friðrik Þórsson/Aaron Cooke (IACN, NREL)
      • Establishing the World’s First Magma Observatory - Björn Þór Guðmundsson (KMT)