Vertical PV Installation in Oslo: Insights on Profitability at High Latitudes
- Klaus Pichler
- Apr 28
- 2 min read
A installation at Oslo’s Ullevaal Stadium is challenging conventional wisdom about solar energy in northern climates. The 248 kWp vertical solar system, featuring 1,242 panels from Over Easy Solar, has demonstrated remarkable performance—especially during the winter months.
This system produces nearly 220,000 kWh annually. What’s particularly notable is that the vertical installation was more profitable in February than a comparable horizontal system was in June. This is largely due to Norway’s high winter electricity prices, which significantly increase the value of energy produced during these months.
This system produces nearly 220,000 kWh annually. What’s particularly notable is that the vertical installation was more profitable in February than a comparable horizontal system was in June. This is largely due to Norway’s high winter electricity prices, which significantly increase the value of energy produced during these months.
Over Easy Solar’s analysis found that vertical panels deliver slightly higher value per installed output by generating more energy in late winter and early spring, precisely when electricity prices peak. In fact, February proved to be four times more profitable than August, overturning the common belief that solar power is ineffective in Norwegian winters.
Another key advantage of the vertical system is its improved year-round distribution of electricity production. This allows the stadium to use more of its own power, reducing reliance on the grid and saving on network rent and fees. Additionally, a separate study by Over Easy Solar showed that vertical arrays can outperform conventional systems by up to 30% during snowy months, further highlighting their suitability for high-latitude locations.
This case study from Oslo’s Ullevaal Stadium demonstrates that vertical PV installations can be a highly effective and profitable solution for maximizing solar energy production in challenging northern climates.
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