Embassy News 2007
U.S. Official Explores Renewable Energy Options with Icelandic President and Minister of Industry
Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Alexander Karsner visited Iceland July 27-29, and discussed the potential for joint renewable energy projects with Icelandic officials and industry experts. While in Reykjavik, Assistant Secretary Karsner met with Iceland President Olafur Ragnar Grimsson to discuss the countries' shared interests in renewable energy and energy efficiency and with Minister of Industry Ossur Skarphedinsson to review opportunities for future renewable energy cooperation. Assistant Secretary Karsner’s visit was given prominent media coverage, including a lengthy story in Morgunbladid newspaper. In an eight-minute interview with the Channel 2 TV newsmagazine show, the Assistant Secretary praised Iceland for using its renewable energy resources, and said the country can become the Saudi Arabia of clean energy worldwide.