Statkraft has decided to proceed with construction of the Blåfjell Pump, a project that will send more water into Blåsjø – Norway’s largest hydropower reservoir – increasing output in the Ulla-Førre power plants by 54 GWh. The work is set to start this week, with commissioning planned for December 2027.
Blåsjø is often described as Norway’s “hydropower battery” due to its ability to store water for several years and aid with the balance of wet and dry periods. The new pumping scheme will move water from three smaller lakes in Hjelmeland municipality, around 60 metres uphill, so it can be stored more efficiently in Blåsjø rather than flowing down to a lower plant.
Statkraft says the project is designed to make better use of an already developed watercourse, with limited additional impact on nature.
The company has already awarded contracts worth NOK 250 million to suppliers from Karmøy, Suldal, Voss and Grenland, while the total project cost is around NOK 300 million.
The build includes a transfer tunnel, a pumping station inside the mountain and other transfer structures.
Statkraft is carrying out the work alongside required dam improvements at four sites on the western end of Blåsjø, with all works expected to be completed during 2028.
The project fits within Statkraft’s wider plan to invest NOK 70 billion in Norwegian hydropower over the next ten years.
