Norsk Hydro is planning a significant upgrade of its hydropower production at Rjukan and will begin an impact assessment in preparation for a potential concession application for a new power plant.
The proposed project would modernise the company’s power production facilities and add increased flexibility and pumped storage capacity to Norway’s power system. According to Norsk Hydro, the expansion could increase capacity by up to 750MW at peak production and pumping.
While the net production will remain close to current levels, gross annual production in the Rjukan section of the Måna river could rise by as much as 50%. The upgrade is expected to optimize Norsk Hydro’s current output of approximately 3TWh of power per year in the region.
The company says the project will improve the use of water resources and ensure power delivery during high-demand periods. It is also expected to support local economic development and reduce flood risk.
“The work to upgrade power production is part of our long-term commitment to renewable energy and Norwegian industrial development,” said Kari Thørud, Executive Vice President of Hydro Energy.
Field studies and impact assessments are set to begin in the second quarter of 2025, with a concession application planned for early 2026.
“We are looking forward to continuing with these plans. We want broad involvement and close dialogue with local communities and municipalities. We are committed to working together to find good solutions, where we minimize the impact on nature and the environment,” said Pål Thorud, Plant Manager at Rjukan.
Norsk Hydro’s operations in Rjukan include the Frøystul, Vemork, Såheim, Moflåt, and Mæl power plants. The company has reviewed several options for upgrades, all of which include continued use of the existing plants. The preferred plan involves a new pumped storage facility and a new tunnel connecting Møsvatn and Tinnsjøen.
The company describes the upgrade as part of its broader strategy to ensure sufficient power supply and competitive electricity prices for Norwegian industry.
