Wedoany.com Report-May 8, Statkraft, Europe’s leading renewable energy producer, has applied for a license to upgrade the Nore hydropower plants in Nore and Uvdal, Buskerud, Norway, with an estimated budget of 4 billion NOK (approximately $384 million). The initiative focuses on modernizing the Nore I and Nore II plants, located along the Numedalslågen river.

Nore I, operational since 1928, has a 212 MW capacity and generates 1,150 GWh annually, while Nore II, commissioned in 1946, has a 60 MW capacity and produces over 300 GWh yearly. When built, Nore I was Norway’s largest hydropower facility, supplying one-fifth of the country’s electricity.

Statkraft aims to develop a “next-generation” hydropower system, with plans for five major upgrades by 2030. Birgitte Ringstad Vartdal, Statkraft’s president and CEO, stated: “The license application for upgrading and expanding the Nore plants is an important step.” The upgrade is a key part of the company’s strategy to enhance Norway’s renewable energy infrastructure.

Two upgrade options are under consideration. The preferred plan involves consolidating both plants into a single new facility inside the mountain, nearly doubling the combined capacity from 274 MW to 500 MW and increasing annual production by about 200 GWh to 1,700 GWh. The alternative approach would relocate both plants deeper into the mountain, boosting capacity by 65 MW and adding roughly 150 GWh to annual output.

Statkraft plans to pursue licenses for additional capacity upgrades in Norway, potentially increasing its installed capacity by 20%, equivalent to 1,500–2,500 MW. The company emphasized that a final investment decision for the Nore upgrade depends on license approval from the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE) and the Ministry of Energy, following a public hearing process.

While upgrades require substantial investment and offer marginal profitability, Statkraft is committed to allocating significant funds to strengthen Norway’s energy system. The company will evaluate projects based on capital availability and potential benefits to prioritize initiatives that maximize energy output.

The Nore upgrade reflects Statkraft’s dedication to advancing sustainable energy solutions, leveraging Norway’s hydropower resources to meet growing demand while supporting long-term environmental goals.