China has been crowned the world’s first electrostate. Electrification and clean energy technologies now account for over 10% of its GDP and contributed to a quarter of its economic growth last year.
But what about Norway?
Norway electrified earlier and faster than almost any other country. It leads the world in renewable power generation, electric vehicle adoption, and clean heating. Few nations have gone further in proving that a fully electrified society is possible. Yet, instead of developing industries to export this advantage globally, Norway has largely kept its electricity surplus within its borders—while continuing to export hydrocarbons to the rest of the world.
In this first live-audience episode of the new podcast WTF Now?, S7’s Rick Wheatley is joined by Stephen Bull, CEO of the Norway-based offshore wind company Vårgrønn, to confront Norway’s energy paradox—and explore what must happen next. Hosted by Systems7 and The Conduit, the conversation will take place at The Conduit’s stunning venue in Oslo.
Together, Rick and Stephen will unpack:
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How Norway’s dual identity as both a petrostate and electrostate is shaping public debate, industrial strategy, and political decision-making
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What other countries are doing to turn electrification into jobs, exports, and global influence — and what Norway might learn or risk missing
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Whether Norway still has time to seize the moment in a world that is increasingly uncertain, competitive, and fragmented — and what kind of national strategy, leadership, and policy that will require
As energy resilience becomes a boardroom priority, this conversation is essential listening for leaders across all industries—not just energy.
Join us live at The Conduit in Oslo (or online) for an honest, urgent dialogue about Norway’s energy future.
