NEWS: Denmark’s 'Rotten Banana' turns green as Aabenraa leads renewable energy surge

Green energy implementation in Denmark’s rural districts is revitalising what was previously dubbed “the rotten banana” to “the green banana." Investments in renewable energy are transforming business growth in areas like Aabenraa. With the highest solar capacity implemented in Denmark and more than 20 energy projects currently approved or in process, the municipality is playing a leading role in realising the national goals for energy capacity.

Aabenraa Kommune has become a hotspot for green growth. The Kassø PtX facility developed by European Energy and connected the solar park – Northern Europe's largest – are just the beginning. In late 2024, Aabenraa had the highest solar capacity of any Danish municipality implemented, several wind turbines installed and 19 further projects under political consideration.

Strategic energy planning is enabling district heating expansion, environmental improvements, vastly improved investment conditions and much more. As a result, Aabenraa is not only transforming itself but also contributing significantly to Denmark’s national energy transition.

“Already now, one can see the contours of the green banana, especially in the part of the country that was once called the rotten banana” (Mandag Morgen, 2024).

With momentum building, the municipality is showing how renewable energy can revitalise regions, attract investment, and inspire broader national change. The story of Aabenraa proves that yesterday’s “rotten banana” is becoming tomorrow’s green growth engine. Read the full article from Mandag Morgen here.