Norconsult ASA and Skanska have both been contracted by Norsk Hydro to support the development of the Illvatn pumped storage hydropower plant in Luster, Vestland County, Norway.
Norconsult will provide detail design, technical support, and assist with project execution, including the design of a 12km 132 kV overhead power line. The project aims to optimize Norsk Hydro’s Fortun hydropower system by reducing water loss in summer months and increasing power generation capacity during winter. Once operational, the facility will pump water up to 360m from the Fivlemyrane reservoir to the Illvatn reservoir and is expected to generate a net 107 GWh of renewable energy annually.
“I am proud that Hydro has chosen to continue collaborating with Norconsult on this significant project. By partnering with Norconsult, Hydro has access to the best capacity and expertise in pumped storage hydropower in Norway. We look forward to the execution phase and to contribute to a successful project for Hydro,” said Håkon Bergsodden, EVP Renewable energy at Norconsult.
Skanska has signed a NOK 950m (approximately US$94m) contract to construct the underground power station, along with associated tunnels and infrastructure. This includes an 8km pressure tunnel between the Fivlemyrane and Illvatn reservoirs, bringing the total tunnel system to around 9km. The work also involves building a permanent road, access tunnel to transformer and station halls, and a 250m surge system. Some parts of the site are roadless and will require helicopter transport.
The Illvatn project will increase storage capacity in the Illvatn reservoir by around 90 million cubic meters and is expected to produce approximately 84 GWh of electricity annually. Preparatory work has begun, with construction scheduled for completion in August 2030.
Norsk Hydro has committed a net investment of NOK 1.2 billion (about US$120m) in the project, with an estimated gross cost of NOK 2.5 billion (about US$250m). According to Norsk Hydro, this is the company’s largest hydropower development in more than 20 years and will support its renewable energy strategy and lower-emission aluminium production in Norway.
