Statkraft has filed a licence application to construct a new Aura power plant in Sunndal, Norway, with an investment of NOK6bn (approximately $590m).
The proposed development aims to significantly enhance the existing facility’s capacity, achieving 2.5 times its current maximum output, and is expected to bolster the region’s power stability.
The new Aura plant is part of Statkraft’s initiative to modernise and expand its hydropower operations. This project is one of several major upgrades outlined by Statkraft in 2024, alongside enhancements planned for the Nore I and Nore II power plants in Buskerud, for which licence applications were already submitted. Additionally, the Mauranger plant is also set for upgrades.
The existing Aura facility, operational since 1953, comprises two stations- Aura and Osbu. It has played a crucial role in supplying electricity to the Møre og Romsdal region.
Statkraft’s application outlines plans to construct a new power station deeper within the mountain, complemented by a tunnel to channel water from the Osbu reservoir. The inclusion of larger turbines is expected to increase the plant’s maximum capacity from 310MW to about 810 MW. This expansion will facilitate more efficient water usage, enabling a substantial rise in electricity output.
The upgrade is designed to enhance the plant’s ability to meet peak electricity demand, potentially increasing annual energy production by approximately 130GWh under normal conditions. This additional output could power over 130,000 Norwegian households, positioning the new Aura plant as one of the largest hydropower facilities in Norway by capacity.
Project manager Are Paulsen said: “Aura has been in operation for over 70 years and needs to be upgraded in the coming years. To ensure a stable and sufficient power supply for the region well into the future, we believe the best solution is to build an entirely new power plant.”
Beyond the Aura project, Statkraft has plans to initiate upgrades at four other significant hydropower plants. Collectively, these developments could boost Statkraft’s installed hydropower capacity in Norway by 1,500 to 2,500 MW.
