Planet Beyond Podcast
Samsø’s community-led energy transition
Published
30 Jan 2025
Samsø, a small Danish island, with a population of just 3,700, has revolutionised its energy landscape. Chosen in 1997 by the Danish government as a social innovation project, the Samsø community has since developed wind farms, solar panels and home grown biofuels that have allowed the island to achieve 100% energy independence, powered entirely by renewable resources, the first island to do so. But how did a small and isolated rural community accomplish such an extraordinary feat?
Joining host Jon Baston-Pitt to explore this fascinating transformation are two remarkable guests: Søren Hermansen is the head of the Samsø Energy Academy, recognised by Time magazine as one of the top 10 environmental heroes and is a Samsø local, and Peter Brooke the Regional Director for Strategic Sales and Marketing at Fugro. Their paths crossed at an event dedicated to sustainability, igniting a conversation about the power of collaboration and the role of businesses in supporting community-driven green initiatives.
Together they discuss how communities can take charge of their own energy futures, overcoming political, financial, and social barriers to build a more sustainable world. Søren and Peter share their perspectives on the importance of collective action, the challenges of transitioning from fossil fuels, and what the rest of the world can learn from the small island of Samsø.
Host
Jon Baston-Pitt, Fugro
Guest
Soren Hermansen, Director, Samsø Energy Academy
Peter Brooke, Regional Director, Strategic Sales and Marketing Europe and Africa, Fugro.
Photo credit | Samsø Energy Academy
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