Statkraft has submitted a licence application to the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE) to construct a new Mår power plant in Rjukan, Tinn municipality, Norway. The proposed facility aims to increase power generation by just over 13 percent and represents Statkraft’s largest project investment in Norway in the coming years. This initiative is part of a broader NOK 70 billion plan to upgrade and further develop Norwegian hydropower infrastructure.

The existing Mår power plant, commissioned in 1948, is nearing the end of its operational lifetime. Statkraft has determined that optimal resource utilisation requires building a new plant approximately 1000 metres further into the mountain. This relocation will shift the intake to the Kalhovd reservoir and the outlet to Tinnsjøen, increasing the height of fall. The new configuration is designed to enable faster electricity production during periods of high demand, thereby helping to reduce price peaks.

Pål Eitrheim, Executive Vice President for the Nordics at Statkraft, highlighted the plant's historical significance and the necessity of the upgrade. "Since the 1940s, Mår hydropower plant has supplied electricity to households and businesses... Now, it must be upgraded," Eitrheim stated. He emphasised the company's responsibility to maximise the value of regulated water resources by increasing both production and capacity.

The project entails significant construction activities, including the excavation of approximately 40 kilometres of new tunnels. Statkraft has initiated dialogue with Tinn municipality and Telemark county to manage the large volumes of excavated rock, exploring opportunities to use these materials for beneficial community purposes. While the new plant will not involve expanding reservoirs or diverting water from new rivers, it will impact the local environment. To mitigate effects on wildlife, Statkraft proposes constructing two new wild reindeer crossings to re-establish historic migration routes.

Financially, the investment framework for the new power plant is NOK 9 billion, with a potential additional NOK 5 billion allocated for a future pumped storage facility. This project aligns with Statkraft's announcement in May to invest NOK 80 billion in Norway over the next decade. A final investment decision will depend on the project’s profitability and the granting of a licence by the authorities.

Project Specifications

The licence application also includes an option to expand capacity to 1040 MW and install 1040 MW of pumping capacity in a later phase. If a licence is awarded, Statkraft will decide whether to refurbish the existing plant or construct a new one based on detailed planning and economic viability.

Statkraft has elected Hedda Felin to its Board of Directors, effective 22 June 2026, replacing Ingelise Arntsen, who stepped down. Felin currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Hurtigruten, a position she has held since 2021. Her appointment brings extensive leadership experience from Norwegian and international industry to the renewable energy major.

Prior to her role at Hurtigruten, Felin spent more than 14 years at Equinor, holding senior leadership positions including Senior Vice President for International Development and Production and Head of the CEO’s Office. She has also worked at Capgemini Consulting. Additionally, Felin serves as a board member of Aibel ASA and the Norwegian Cancer Society. She holds a Master’s degree in International Politics and Administration from Sciences Po in Paris, France.

Board Composition

As of 22 June 2026, the Board of Directors of Statkraft AS includes the following members:

The Board of Directors in Statkraft AS is identical to the Board of Directors in Statkraft SF. Statkraft is a leading company in hydropower internationally and Europe's largest generator of renewable energy. The Group produces hydropower, wind power, solar power, and gas-fired power, employing around 6,200 people in 20 countries.