Bornholm distinguishes itself in two ways in its efforts to overcome global climate challenges: we aim to transform the entire island of Bornholm into a carbon-neutral community self-sufficient in renewable energy and the entire community is involved in the process.

Also, Bornholm has unique potential as an international energy laboratory. A unique power system with a single cable connecting the island to the rest of the Nordic grid means that the island can be disconnected from the grid and function as a self-contained system, providing ideal conditions for conducting tests of and research into new energy technologies. Bornholm represents roughly 1% of Denmark’s population, land area and energy consumption. This makes Bornholm a representative mini-society which affords a rewarding visit for those interested in sustainable, green development!

The Bornholm power grid has a high and increasing proportion of wind power. Another decisive factor is district heating based on straw and woodchips, and the utilisation of sundry waste biomass components for the production of biogas, electricity, heat and second-generation bioethanol.

Intelligent Energy

The electricity systems of the future are called smart grids, i.e. intelligent systems that can manage fluctuating electricity production and constantly exchange information between producer and consumer. Bornholm has been selected to be an energy laboratory for the EDISON project which conducts research into intelligent charging of electric vehicles (EVs) using wind power, where EVs serve as a storage unit.

Household heating has the potential to save enormous volumes of energy. Two Bornholm companies have developed different types of passive houses certified to German passive-energy standards.

Bornholm has made great strides in ensuring supplies of clean water to its consumers and in managing wastewater. We have an efficient supply system and a primarily mechanical and biological wastewater treatment process that results in clean water. The entire system is also in the process of implementing energy efficiency measures at its facilities.

Bornholm has a comprehensive energy strategy, a common branding strategy and an island-wide plan for making the Bornholm community carbon neutral, while generating green growth in the process. The strategic platform ensures that we stay on course and that our actions are coordinated and make sense.

Our tasks are focused on information, community involvement and training in the field of climate and energy. We are committed to the principles of fair trade and CSR. We invest in our unique natural environment and are proud of our many local enthusiasts who personally take green initiatives. A visit to Bornholm presents other angles to actions that can make a world of difference.