Could it actually happen?

Norway is not an EU member, but the country is part of the European Economic Area (EEA). While a EU directive regulates summer time arrangements, whether it has authority over creating separate time zones is another question.

According to a Commission official, time zones are a matter for countries themselves, so it’s unlikely that the EU will be able to grant the region’s request.

Nevertheless, Pedersen is hoping to at least spread the word about the uniqueness of northern Norway.

“In this respect we are one of the richest regions in Europe because […] we have more time,” Pedersen said.