Wedoany.com Report-May 30, Statkraft, a Norwegian state-owned utility, has applied for a license to construct a new Aura power plant in Sunndal, Norway, with a budget of 6 billion NOK (approximately $590 million). The proposed plant would increase the current maximum capacity by 2.5 times, from 310 megawatts to about 810 megawatts, making it one of Norway’s largest hydropower facilities. The project is part of Statkraft’s most significant hydropower investments in decades, announced in 2024, alongside upgrades for the Nore I, Nore II, and Mauranger plants.

The existing Aura power plant, comprising the Aura and Osbu stations, has been operational since 1953, supplying over a quarter of the electricity in Møre og Romsdal. Located near Hydro Sunndal, a major aluminum plant, the facility requires modernization. Statkraft’s CEO, Birgitte Ringstad Vartdal, stated: “Electricity is the backbone of our society and the foundation for value creation across the country. By building a new Aura power plant, we can deliver more capacity – and slightly more energy – without adding more water.” The new plant will be built deeper in the mountain, with a new tunnel from the Osbu reservoir and larger turbines to meet peak demand.

Project manager Are Paulsen noted: “Aura has been in operation for over 70 years and needs to be upgraded. To ensure a stable and sufficient power supply, we believe the best solution is to build an entirely new power plant.” The upgrade is expected to boost annual energy production by 130 gigawatt-hours, totaling enough to power over 130,000 Norwegian households, enhancing local energy supply without affecting trade dynamics.

The new Aura plant is anticipated to drive significant regional investment, create jobs, and benefit local contractors, as Vartdal emphasized: “The new Aura power plant will bring significant investment to the region, create positive ripple effects for the local community, and generate work for contractors and suppliers.” Statkraft’s broader plan includes upgrading four other major hydropower plants, potentially increasing Norway’s hydropower capacity by 1,500 to 2,500 megawatts, a rise of over 20%.

Vartdal added: “These capacity upgrades require substantial investment and are only marginally profitable. We are committed to strong local dialogue and engagement.” The projects aim to balance environmental considerations and community needs while supporting Norway’s renewable energy goals and industrial demand.