The existing Aura plant
The Aura project is part of Statkraft’s efforts to modernize and expand its hydropower infrastructure. Two weeks earlier, the company applied for licenses to upgrade the Nore I and Nore II plants in Buskerud, following similar initiatives announced in 2024 for the Mauranger facility. 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 existing Aura power plant, operational since 1953, includes the Aura and Osbu stations and provides over a quarter of the electricity for Møre og Romsdal. Located near Hydro Sunndal, Europe’s largest aluminium plant, it supports significant regional energy needs. Project manager Are Paulsen noted: “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.”
The planned facility involves constructing a new station deeper within the mountain and a tunnel to channel water from the Osbu reservoir. This upgrade will increase capacity from 310 MW to approximately 810 MW, boosting annual energy production by about 130 GWh, enough to power over 130,000 Norwegian households. Vartdal added: “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 plans to modernize four additional hydropower facilities, potentially adding 1,500 to 2,500 MW to its Norwegian capacity, a more than 20% increase. Vartdal emphasized: “These capacity upgrades require substantial investment and are only marginally profitable. That is why we are committed to strong local dialogue and engagement.” The company prioritizes expanding hydropower production while minimizing environmental impact and fostering collaboration with local communities and landowners.
