Vattenfall plans for new hydro power in Sweden

In total, the project will provide 720 MW of new hydro capacity, which is almost 9 % of Vattenfalls total hydro power capacity today. The expansion could start in 2026 and be completed in 2030. Pre studies are now being conducted to prepare for an upcoming investment decision.

“It is truly a pleasure to announce our plans to build new hydro power in Sweden. If these projects are in fact put in motion, it will mean a substantial increase in output when we need it the most. This is necessary to meet the rising demand for fossil-free electricity, which is a must if we are to reach our climate goals. Hydro-power reservoirs are Sweden’s green batteries and by adding new flexibility and balancing capabilities, we are paving the way for a greater proportion of wind and solar power in the electrical system,” says Johan Dasht, Head of Vattenfall’s Hydro Power Operations in the Nordics.

Four projects are planned, with a total capacity of 720 MW:

- At the Harsprånget power station on the Lule älv river in Norrbotten, the plan is to renew and reinstate a unit that is currently out of operation.

- At the Porjus power station on the Lule älv river, there are plans to increase water flow and generation.

- At the Messaure power station on the Lule älv river, there are plans for a fourth unit.

- At the Juktan power station on the Storjuktan lake adjacent to the Umeälven river in Västerbotten, a pilot study is underway to investigate reinstating a pumped storage plant. Juktan was once Swedens largest pumped storage plant and was operatinal 1979-1996.

There is about 16,000 MW of hydro power in Sweden. Of this, Vattenfall operates just over half, approximately 8,500 MW, annually producing 65 TWh of fossil-free electrical power.

Lennart Håkansson

editor@northswedenbusiness