Proud Stoltenberg in turkey Norway’s Prime Minister praises Statkraft venture bull’S-eye for biathleteS Sponsorship manager believes in more success

Portrait of the Plant manager aS an actor Meet Morgan Rubensson, performing artist

St AtkR Aft' lARG S 5bA eSt tteR ieS

l feature: PreParedneSS CoSPecia NqueRed theStoRM Storm «dagmar» ravaged communities in Western Norway. And then the Gaupne crew hit back –without communications and in pitch darkness.

A mAgAzine for StAtkrAft employeeS I no. 1 2012 leader & content

Content

04 Synnøve’s bullseye When the going The biathlete has not always been gets tough… amongst the best 06 Proud Prime Minister Travelled to Turkey to see Statkraft’s fter 20 years of working in media, I new hydropower plant Several trees were down in front of us, so we have learned that accidents and had to turn back. But on the way back, more storms often occur when things From one Sec- 12 hot in Sweden a otherwise are peaceful. Still, “Dagmar” ond to the next, New electricity pricing areas getting heat trees had fallen onto the road, trapping us. came suddenly on Christmas Day, ravaging the landscape in Western Norway, de- Gaupne waS 14 A century’s fortune Read about how the stoRm “dagmaR” pRevented noRman KjæRviK fRom getting to woRK, p. 27 stroying houses and roads, and blacking out entire Blacked out. a Johannes Mæland wrote one of the communities. The images on the TV screen were reminder oF how most profitable letters in the world shocking, and soon we received messages from regional director Svein Ove Slinde and information vulneraBle we 16 touch up manager Norman Kjærvik, "Statkraft's regional aS a Society are The Tunhovd dam will barely be recog- dispatch centre in Gaupne in Luster municipality when electricity nisable has lost all communications with power plants in Sogn og Fjordane, Møre og Romsdal and Sør- cutS out. and aS 24 hell hath no fury Trøndelag counties. The preparedness organi- the telephone … But eventually, storm “Dagmar” lost sation has been mobilised.” They faced some networkS col- dramatic hours and hectic days at work. 30 fully charged batteries From one second to the next, Gaupne was lapSed, people And here’s where you will find blacked out. A reminder of how vulnerable we as loSt contact Statkraft’slargest a society are when electricity cuts out. And as the and Became iSo- telephone networks collapsed, people lost contact 32 All the world is a stage and became isolated. lated. Morgan, power plant manager and a Dagmar’s fury also tested Statkraft’s abilities to actor respond to major incidents. We soon found that our preparedness was working as intended, and 38 Staff wants to lift employees that when the going gets tough, our employees get New executive vice president with full going. This is something we can all be proud of. focus on performance We have also been reminded of how important it is to be prepared for risk and possible crises. The extreme weather system “Dagmar” is part of the trend towards a warmer, wilder and wetter climate. Statkraft can play an important role in meeting the climate challenges. As Norwegian Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg Editor in chief: bente e. engesland told: Editor: Christer gilje “The world needs more energy and fewer emis- [email protected] sions. Hydropower is one of the best solutions to Editorial staff; birger baug, irene mac- invest in.” The statement was made on his way to Callum, tone dahle, Lars magnus günther, Kargi in Turkey, to mark Statkraft’s venture into gunilla Lundén, judith tranninger, Kathy Korte, torbjørn steen international hydropower. As fate would have it, snow and heavy fog Design and production: n prevented the PM’s helicopter from taking off. But Redink/birger baug,Christenpedersen Cover: tom ingar hauståker, tron nse

Jens Stoltenberg, Chairman Svein Aaser and other jøR engebrethsen, svein ove slinde dignitaries still made an appearance at the grand sb

Cover photo: hans fredrik asbjørnsen Ka opening of one of Statkraft’s most recent contribu- Printed by: RK grafisk as dRi

tions to securing more clean energy for the world. fRe

Circulation: 5000 s

Your tips and input are greatly han Bente e. engesland

appreciated. Send to: [email protected] to

Communications senior vice president fo

2 — StAtkRAft PeoPle & PoWeR — 3 current affairS Sponsorship

statkraft Best at renewaBles trading 20 000 visitors according to a brand new survey, statkraft is the european energy revolution was one of the main themes during e-world energy & water 2012, the leader in green certificates trading. the global market and leading energy and water utilisation and distribution conference. this was a perfect oppor- environmental journals environmental finance and Carbon tunity for statkraft to present forward looking and cost-efficient concepts for energy, trade finance carried out the survey among their readers. and Co2 certificates. green certificates are handled by statkraft’s Renewables the essen fair is the most important venue for the energy industry, and the more than 500 166 000 000 trading team in amsterdam, and by arne wist and thor exhibitors received more than 20 000 accredited visitors. during the three february days magne johansen in oslo’s origination team. Bodø Energi and Statkraft Varme AS (SVAS) are well underway in plan- the fair lasted, visitors got to know europe’s largest producer of renewable energy, and the various certificates traded by the teams are accepted the team had their hands full in holding all the conversations and meetings that the public ning a district heating infrastructure and production in Bodø. Enova has in all european countries, making statkraft the largest all- wanted. granted NOK 166 million in financial support for the projects. rounder in the market – a fact that has not failed to attract attention. next year’s fair will take place from 5 to 7 february, and statkraft has already booked space.

“The great new biathlon hope” is what she has been for many years, Statkraft has supported World Cup events and the world championships called after securing the biathletes through Statkraft’s Young Star, in Rupholding. In Nove Mesto, they were lucky fourth place during the World Cup race in Statkraft Junior Cup and in general as a spon- enough to rent a large house with great facilities Östersund, Sweden, sor for the Norwegian Biathlon Association. and their very own chef. at the start of the One of the beneficiaries of our sponsorship “It is far better to stay like this, rather than at season. Synnøve Solemdal has worked activities is Synnøve Solemdal, a fairly fresh a hotel," she says. "We relax more, are more hard to get where she athlete in the top division, by many called social and not least, we can eat when we is today. Norway’s new biathlon star. want, and manage five meals per day, which is Solemdal is from Tingvollen in Møre og a challenge at a hotel.” Statkraftsafeguards Romsdal County, and started competing in In fact, the biathlete hopeful says it feels HSE in the wax shack the biathlon as a 12-year-old in 2002. Only almost like home – a fact she shares just 10 years later, and in her second season as before leaving for the evening's final training a senior in the World Cup, she is currently session, a run with the girls in the dark of the the Biathlon is not all fun and games. ranked as number 10 in the World Cup. snowy Czech countryside. The biathlon national team has an exten- sive support organisation and many work not a good junior racer. “I think it’s better long term focus. Statkraft’s partnership fulltime during the racing season. Some not to be a top junior racer, because that with the Norwegian Biathlon Association is of Statkraft’s funding has been spent on means you have to work harder and be more already six years old. Responsible for market- a splendid waxing truck, similar to the systematic in your approach," says Solemdal. ing and partnerships in Statkraft, Eivind A. one used by the national cross-country "This gives you a good basis for performing Sørlie, is very pleased to see the partnership team. well in the long term. You have to believe and continue. “This has provided us with fantastic not give up! It’s a question of having a long “Biathlon is a sport that fits our enterprise working conditions, as we don’t have to term perspective on your training, work hard very well," he says. "It goes on outdoors in pack and unpack equipment, everything and systematically, and you’ll get results. I snow and wind, elements that we use to make is available at all times, and in terms of wanted to be the best that I could. And I real- clean energy. It is also very a technical and health, it is very good to have proper ven- ised I had to do something about it. I became mentally demanding sport, as they not only tilation when we’re preparing the skis,” more conscious of doing the right things while have to race on skis, they need to stop and says waxer Jon Kristian Svaland. I trained, at the same time as I took a holistic concentrate to hit tiny targets in wind and Just another way for Statkraft to safe- approach – diet, rest and everything that goes snow under massive pressure and competi- guard HSE – even on the biathlon circuit. into being a complete racer. My challenge is tors breathing down their necks. This has to become a better shot; cross country is my made the sport very innovative in terms of strong side.” equipment, technique and how they train.” Solemdal is very clear that the right spon- The performance culture found in sports also sors also have an impact. fits well with the performance requirements of “Statkraft’s support contributes to mature the business world, according to Sørlie. new talent, and ensures that more kids get “This is also a great spectator sport, with the opportunity to try biathlon,” she stresses. great athletes with the ability to enthuse both “To me, it is important to have sponsors with employees and the general public,” Sørlie values I believe in, and Statkraft has that.” says. “Internationally, we’re a great match as well, biathlon is very popular in the European mutual support. The day we meet Solemdal in markets that are important to us, particularly Keep the faith! Nove Mesto in the Czech Republic, she finished France and Germany.” as number 20, but she is still pleased. “Condi- Sports are not the only thing Statkraft is tions were poor, so it went as it went,” she says, involved in in terms of partnerships and spon- Norway’s new biathlon star is not a natural talent, taking pleasure in team mate Tora Berger’s soring. The portfolio also includes various en- but rather a hard and focused worker runaway victory that day. The girls on the team vironmental and humanitarian organisations, support each other and the younger racers learn as well as culture and various events. text tone dahLe photo sCanpix from the older ones, although they compete “We are involved in different venues to cover Statkraft sponsor responsible Eivind A. Sørlie, marketing against each other in the individual competi- different needs. We love to create enthusiasm, head Linda Linnebo of the Norwegian Biathlon Associa- tions. During the season, they are more or less but we also want to demonstrate responsibil- tion and waxer Jon Kristian Svaland all agree that the wax truck is a great improvement. on the road from December to March, with nine ity and build credibility in several fields.”

4 — StAtkRAft PeoPle & PoWeR — 5 current affairS Turkey

Facts turkey

population: 76.8 million area: 770760 square kilometres power consumption 2011: 229 twh power generation 2011: 228 twh installed capacity: 53 000 mw (31 per cent gas-fired power, 34 per cent other thermal, 32 per cent hydropower)

statkraft in turkey Cakit (20 mw) in operation Kargi (102 mw) under construction Cetin (517 mw) under construction annual production: about 9.52 Gwh, to increase to about 2 twh/year in 2015 the ambition is to continue to grow, and become a significant energy player in turkey through acquisitions and developments.

tuRkiSh delight «We are proud of Statkraft. It is an excellent company and the right partner for Turkey.» Norwegian Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg was strong and clear when he travelled to Turkey to mark the construction start of the Kargi hydropower plant.

text LaRs magnus güntheR photo simon sKReddeRnes

6 — StAtkRAft PeoPle & PoWeR — 7 current affairS Turkey

the machine gobbles up between 18 and 25 meters of mountain every day, leaving a 9.6-metre diameter tunnel in its wake.

1

“this is an important project, for Turkey, 9.6-metre diameter tunnel in its wake. The Norway and Statkraft, and for renewable mass is led from the cutting shield in front energy,” the Prime Minister stressed. “As a and through the 160 metre long ‘train’, and Norwegian I know a lot about the importance is then removed from the tunnel. At the same of renewable energy in general and hydropower time, special concrete elements are installed in particular. The world needs more energy and to secure the tunnel where the rock is of poor lower emissions. Hydropower is one of the best quality. solutions to invest in.” The entire electrically-powered mole was tai- Everything was ready for the grand visit at lored to Kargi, and was assembled for the first the construction site of the Kargi hydropower time on site. Between 100 and 150 men make plant on the morning of 9 January 2012. The up each of the three shifts that are eating their helicopter landing was cleared, the red carpet way through the mountain. Work only stops for had been rolled out and in between the tunnel three or four hours of maintenance each night. boring machine, the tunnel entrance and the The EUR 250 million Kargi hydropower plant power station building under construction, two has been under construction since January ceremonial tents had been erected to receive 2011 and will be completed in 2013. The Prime Minister Jens Stoltenberg and Turkey’s 13.5 metre high dam will be finished about 15 Minister of Energy, Taner Yildiz. The rain and kilometres from the town of Osmancik. The cold were barely noticed as people rushed to dam will form a reservoir of about four square get all in order for the arrival of the VIPs. kilometres, enough to store water for 15 hours At the same time in Ankara, 300 kilometres 2 of production at the power plant. From the 4 southwest of Kargi, at significantly higher dam intake, the water will be lead through the altitude, there was heavy snow and fog. In 3 1. Wide open. Big dimensions are 11.5 kilometre long tunnel northwards through 5 needed for the 167 000 litre/sec fact, the weather was so bad that the helicop- tunnel. the mountain and down to the power station. ters that were supposed to bring the govern- Utilising the 75 metre elevation difference and ment ministers and their entourage to Kargi, 2. Warm welcome. Locals had the 167 cubic metre/minute capacity, the two could not take off. Kargi was notified, and the prepared well for the meeting with 51 MW generators will be able to generate 470 the Norwegian PM. preparations had a new, improvised buzz. GWh annually. Video links were established with Ankara, and 3. On the big screen. PM Stolten- None of the residents in the valley villages the ceremony could take place, without any berg addressed guests from Ankara had to move due to the project, but rice fields via the big screen. delays, with the two guests of honour on the will be flooded as a result. Therefore, secur- big screens. 4. Huddle. Great atmosphere in ing compensation for the more than 1 000 However, 200 guests were physically present Statkraft’s management team. From private landowners has been a top priority. A left: Ayse Filiz Kolat and Steinar at the Kargi site. Local residents, local and Bjørnbet from the Istanbul office, court ruling on the compensation has already regional authority representatives, and a chairman Svein Aaser, advisor Simen been made, and amicable settlements are now number of local partners were present, while Bræin, Executive vice president being sought. In addition, work is underway to International hydropower, Øistein Statkraft’s corporate management was repre- Andresen, and head of Southeast secure alternative income, for instance through sented by Chairman Svein Aaser and Executive Europe, Tima Iyer Utne. the use of greenhouses and fruit tree orchards, Vice President Øistein Andresen. in addition to common measures in the villages 5. Hi-viz. Head of the electro- Turkish media had also turned up in force to mechanical equipment at Kargi, Hans affected. document the event, and the 102 MW capacity Harald Karlsen, and HSE manager, An information office has been set up in hydropower project taking shape on the shores Trond Kirkhaug. Osmancik to ensure a good dialogue with the of the river Kizilirmak. The participants got to local population. The office is open on all week- see the 160-metre tunnel boring machine, or days and staffed by Statkraft personnel. Locals the mole, which at the end of January started stop by with questions regarding the project work to bore an 11.5 kilometre long tunnel, and the expropriation, as well as input, ideas which will lead water to the power station. and wishes for what the project also can con- The machine gobbles up between 18 and tribute to the community, in addition to clean 25 meters of mountain every day, leaving a energy, jobs and economic development.

8 — StAtkRAft PeoPle & PoWeR — 9 current affairS Turkey

PG director Tron Engebrethsen spearheads the new campaign – in a very visual manner. mining foR gReen goLd many a traveller has trawled istanbul’s grand bazaar for gold and other goods. for statkraft’s EmployEES laud turkey managing director, HSE campaign We care about each other NO ACTIVI steinar bjørnbet, the city that TY IS IMPORTANT ENOUGH TO BE CARRIED OU T WITH RISK TO LIFE AND HEALTH Tron Engebrethsen straddles the bosporus between the goal is to become Power Generation (PG) DIRECTORPOWERGENERATION europe and asia is where he asignificant power receives praise from mines for that green gold. producer in turkey. employees for the new text LaRs magnus güntheR photo simon sKReddeRnes safety campaign. Steinar Bjørnbet

from his office on the 11th level of the styl- and 1500 people respectively, including “it is important to regularly revive aware- and systematic approach,” the PG boss says. ish office building Kempinski Astoria on the contractors and sub-contractors. One impor- ness and focus on safety,” says engineer “I’m very pleased with the good safety culture European side of Istanbul, Steinar Bjørnbet tant success criterion is efficient and sound Ingvar Skrunes at electro control facili- we have developed in PG over the years, has not only a magnificent view of this vast management of all this. ties. “It is also positive that the Statkraft where we have become better at both report- city, but also everything that Statkraft does in Bjørnbet sees some distinct challenges for management is so clear on safety and safe ing and implementing safety measures. And Turkey. The country of 75 million people, with Statkraft as a company. job considerations taking precedence over we all need a reminder from time to time, and a growing population and increasing power “Statkraft is not supposed to be a multina- getting the job done.” I believe this campaign is just that.” needs, is fast becoming one of Statkraft’s tional company, but rather an international most important growth areas. one, with distinct roots in Norway,” he says. the numBer of injuries has increased. PG more frequent courses needed. Skilled The 2009 acquisition of Yesil Enerji marked at the market: “Getting there is a process, where working director Tron Engebrethsen has put himself in worker in Facilities and SHA coordinator the start of Statkraft’s presence in Turkey. A Steinar Bjørnbet is on management systems, expertise building, the frontline of the campaign, and is on all the Frode Sevlejordet also has input. scouring the markets designated Turkey office was established, for more hydropower in operations and recruitment can’t be founded posters now being put up across the company. “The promotion using posters and handing headed by Steinar Bjørnbet. Now, the office Turkey for Statkraft. on Norwegian models exclusively.” He sees a After a decade-long decrease in the number of out safety goggles is good," he says. "But I has 15 employees, and handles all support greater need for adjusting to local conditions injuries, we now have a slight increase. think the access to safety courses is too poor, functions for on-going projects. Everything where you are. “This campaign is not about showing im- we need to make this more available. Instead from legal, HR and finance to public relations, managementteam: With Cakit power plant in operation, and ages of some managers, but rather helping of every three years like we currently have, I corporate social responsibility and coordina- The management Kargi and Cetin hydropower plants under our employees think about safety," he says. "It think the course should be an annual affair, tion of internal suppliers to market activities team at the Istanbul construction, Statkraft is on its way to is only natural that we in PG spearhead this just like the first aid course and FSE. The office. Steinar and operations are handled here. Market Bjørnbet, Ayse Filiz establishing a robust power plant portfolio in campaign, as our employees are the most safety course is just as important.” activities are handled by Market Continent Kolat and Terje Vold. the country. When the latter is completed in exposed to injuries. We’re not pleased with Stefan Rembges, HSE head in Power Genera- (MC) and the operation of Cakit is led by 2015, Statkraft will have 639 MW of installed the results, and don’t want anybody getting tion Germany & UK, believes all parts of the Power Generation (PG). This year, local trad- capacity and an annual power production of 2 hurt. What is important is that we see that company will have increased focus on HSE now: ing activities with local employees will also be TWh in Turkey. But the ambition is continued this is about you and me. What can we do to “I particularly appreciate that this is an established under Trading & Origination. growth. As a result, Bjørnbet’s second main show we care about each other?” international initiative, and that we contribute Bjørnbet views recruitment to on-going pro- task is to find new business opportunities. together towards improving our safety culture jects as one of his most important tasks. “We’re on the outlook for more hydropower, protectivegoggles. The campaign com- on a daily basis,” he says. “The Turkish projects are the first interna- either as existing plants or new projects we prises a number of elements, and is carried tional hydropower projects where Statkraft can develop. The goal is to become a signifi- out at all PG locations. One of the measures this campaign is not owns 100 per cent. This creates massive cant power producer in Turkey,” he stresses. was that all employees had to attend a new expectations, making it particularly important An important opportunity is the coming health and safety course in January, and will about showing images to recruit the right people for the right posi- privatisation of State hydropower plants, but receive a new health and safety handbook. All of some managers, but rather tion at the right time,” Bjørnbet believes. acquiring private portfolios could also be employees will also receive a pair of sealed To date, between 50 and 60 people have relevant. There are many possibilities in the protective goggles that they can use in their helping our employees think been recruited to handle the two on-going country which expects to double its energy spare time as well. development projects in Kargi and Cetin. At production from 207 TWh in 2010 to 420 Twh “In order to be successful in our health and about safety. the peak, the two projects will employ 500 by 2020. safety work, we need to have a continuous

10 — StAtkRAft PeoPle & PoWeR — 11 current affairS Sweden

munch in the top 6 in paris Statkraft’s total thestatkraft-sponsored edvard Munch exhibition in Paris is one of Sweden’s billion kroner grid upgrade annual power pro- the six most visited exhibitions at Centre Pompidou since the gallery sweden has made major budget allocations for grid upgrades, to get rid of opened its doors in 1977. the exhibition ran from 20 September until 23 bottlenecks that cause major fluctuations in electricity prices for end users. duction is about 57 January, and had an average of 4508 visitors – every day! from 2013 until 2019, Sweden’s grid operator Svenska kraftnät will invest TWh. Hydropower the exhibit included a total of 140 works by Norway’s most famous around Sek 3 billion annually on new infrastructure. Most of the new invest- comprisesaround painter, and is far from done with its european tour. on 9 february, the ments will be made in southern Sweden, where the need is greatest. the exhibit opened in frankfurt’s kunsthalle in Germany, and from 28 June investments represent an annual increase of about 500 per cent, compared 57 90 per cent of this. 6 until 12 october, the works will be on show at tate Modern in london. 500% with investments made from 1990 until 2011. SWediSh eleCtRiCity debAte the price differences between SPARkS heAt the various regions became far more apparent after we introduced high electricity prices the four regions. media had reports have been a hotly de- of families paying one price, while the bated issue in Sweden in house across the street paid more.

the past three years. the PErroSENqVIST debate peaked with the elspot prices in (euR/mwh) se2 introduction of the coun- elspot prices in (euR/mwh) se3 try’s new pricing areas in This is the graph elspot prices in (euR/mwh) se4 that made the November last year. Swedes see red (blue line). text Cato gjeRtsen Photo dag spant

he debate on Sweden’s areas, according to a model very for about a month, until price lev- scheme to divide the country into high electricity prices similar to the one used in Norway. els became more harmonised.” four pricing areas could distort for end users really took “Until then, Sweden was one He believes that start-up dif- competition. toff during the 2009 and market, and power was traded ficulties in regulating the new Before Christmas, the com- 2010 winter seasons. within the borders,” Rosenqvist pricing areas are partly to blame. petition authorities received a The three major energy producers says. “One consequence was that But it did not help that several complaint from a group of busi- in the country, Vattenfall, Fortum people in the north practically nuclear power plants were out of ness owners who were tired of the and E.ON, took the majority of the subsidised their southern country- commission, and the grid capacity high electricity prices in southern heat. The companies were criti- men.” continued to be lower in the south Sweden after the country was sep- cised for having greedy manage- According to EU legislation, such than in the north. arated into four pricing areas. In ment, and that private citizens and a practice is strictly prohibited. “At the same time, we need to the complaint, they claim that the businesses had to pay inflated Sweden was therefore forced to be grateful that the late autumn separation has caused an unfair prices. The power companies divide the country into four price and early winter were milder than Per rosenqvist is responsible for distortion of competition between replied that several nuclear plants regions, in order to achieve more usual. That helped.” Statkraft’s energy trade in Sweden. Swedish industrial companies. The were out of commission and that fair power prices based on avail- companies that filed the complaint the grid had insufficient capacity ability and demand around the wind and gas. However, the overall power production in south- believe that Svenska Kraftnät is to transport the amount of energy country. criticism before Christmas was ern Sweden. abusing its dominant position in needed. “The price differences between somewhat better founded than “There’s plenty of wind in the violation of the competition act. the various regions became far before. This time, politicians and region, but there is fairly strong The Swedish Competition Author- no more suBsidies. Per more apparent after we intro- the Swedish grid operator Svenska resistance amongst locals against ity has now made its ruling, and Rosenqvist is in charge of Stat- duced the four regions,” Rosen- Kraftnät came under fire. People possible wind power projects. believes there are no grounds for kraft’s energy trade in Sweden. He qvist says. “Media had reports of were upset due to poor transfer Increased gas import could be further investigations. The ruling says there was a direct correla- families paying one price, while capacity, and demanded meas- an alternative, but it is still too states that Svenska Kraftnät has tion between the temperature in the house across the street paid ures to level out price differences. early to speak about any specific operated within the framework the public debate and electricity more. The internal price differenc- “The politicians replied that projects.” stipulated by the EU and the Swed- prices during the same period. But es in Sweden started significantly major funds had been allocated to ish government. The ruling can then – in November – there was a higher than any prognoses indi- development and strengthening complaints to the competition only be overturned by the courts, proper public outcry. On 1 Novem- Idyllic, but pricey. People in southern Sweden have some cated in November 2011. At the of the grid from 2013 until 2019,” authority. The Swedish competi- and it is still uncertain whether the very nice power plants, but are not pleased with the high ber, Sweden was, for the first time, electricity prices. Pictured is Laholm Power Plant. peak, 1 Kwh was SEK 0.13 more Rosenqvist says. He adds that tion authorities have decided group that filed the complaint will divided into four separate pricing expensive in the south. This lasted there is political will to increase not to investigate whether the pursue the matter.

12 — StAtkRAft PeoPle & PoWeR — 13 anniverSary Ulla-Førre i speak for us all, acquire the wa- ter resources – and get us money, and you’ll see the nation be built. and our beloved ones will inherit the earth

exCeRpt fRom joahnnes mæLand’s LetteR to Cabinet ministeR daRRe-jensen.

Ulla-Førre celebrates centenary: historic power the story of Northern europe’s largest power plant started at a farm in the ulla Valley – more than 100 years ago. And it is far from over.

text LiLY KaLvø Photo pÅL ChRistensen, stavangeR aftenbLad

t was the visionary farmer It was his great-great-grandfa- Johannes “Rabbane” Mæland ther who wrote the famous letter i who, more than a century ago, on the last Wednesday of Novem- wrote a letter to the cabinet ber 1911. minister Darre-Jensen. He wanted the state to build a road to the water and wind. Many people isolated valley, and to secure the regard hydropower as the key to waterfall rights from speculators. a cleaner future and this natural 100 years later to the date, the source of renewable energy will farmer is honoured by Statkraft not disappear. with an in-depth look at the history “When there is no more oil or and a tour of his farm. Represent- gas in the North Sea, hydropower atives from Statkraft’s corporate will continue, guaranteed," says management, mayors, historians regional director Jan Alne of and selected dignitaries joined the Statkraft. "And we will manage this anniversary tour from Sand to the valuable resource in the best pos- Ulla Valley on the 100th anniver- sible manner." sary of the letter. Adds Alne, "The goal is sound “We have fair weather, there’s operations for prosperity. Water plenty of water! We’ll use this to is free and a renewable resource. produce power later this winter,” The climate situation will provide us says power plant manager at Ulla- with more, not less, raw material. If Førre, Bjørn Sandvik. we continue to operate our hydro- power soundly, the resources will road construction. Mæland’s last for the foreseeable future.” letter was indeed read, and his “We will continue our work to request for a road was granted – provide growth in clean energy. but not until 13 years later. Many Wind and water will go hand in years after that, during the devel- hand. This is why we are involved opment of Ulla-Førre (1974-1988) in pioneering projects for the de- 125 kilometres of new road were velopment of offshore wind farms constructed to handle the heavy off the coast of the UK. These construction traffic. Environmental are very exciting facilities, but considerations, as well as con- inflexible in the sense that when siderations for the salmon in the the wind stops blowing, the power Suldalslågen River, were important production also stops. In com- factors during the development. bination with Ulla-Førre and its regional director of Stat- "We've noticed very little impact ‘storage’ Lake Blåsjøen (making kraft, Jan Alne, and power from the development in the land- up 10 per cent of Norway’s total plant manager Bjørn Sand- scape, but there is one notable reservoir capacity), it provides vik, look small in compari- son with theoddatjørn dam difference, there’s less flooding us with some very exciting future at Lake Blåsjø. The rock-fill than before,” says sheep farmer prospects for Norway as Europe’s dam is 140 metres tall. Torjus Halsne. green battery.”

14 — StAtkRAft PeoPle & PoWeR — 15 Photo eSSay Tunhovd

CrEATUrE FroMTHE dEEP: diver Thor Øyvind Ødegaard rises from the water after welding at the bottom. The divers must comply with very strict regulations, and the water level in the reservoir always determines how long a diver works under water and how long he needs on his return to the surface.

Vintage: diver Thomas Holum strikes a pose in what appears to be a 19th century diving suit, which it is, in a way. Although the suit itself is quite modern, it is made based on a patent from 1837. “The diving pioneers 200 years ago knew what they were doing,” Holum says.

deeP RiNSe When the Tunhovd dam is overhauled, you have to go off on the deep end.

TExT Cato gjeRtsen PhOTO dag spant

16 — StAtkRAft PeoPle & PoWeR — 17 Photo eSSay Tunhovd

STUNNING: TheTunhovd damissur- HEAVy dUTy: Four kilometres from the rounded by thick coniferous forests, Tunhovd dam is the daybreak where and at 700 meters’ elevation, the influx crews get rock mass for their upgrade of comes from all over. Some years, the the dam. The rocks are carefully sorted water freezes as early as october, while according to size, and are used in various in others the water does not freeze until places in the dam. January.

18 — StAtkRAft PeoPle & PoWeR — 19 Photo eSSay Tunhovd

CoLdErTHAN A….: Falsework carpenters Errol Haugen (left) and Johannes Søndenå prefabricate falsework which is lowered to the bottom of the reservoir and then installed by divers. The Tunhovd dam is usually quite cold during winters, with temperatures nearing -30º C.

he Tunhovd dam is currently undergoing a mas- to begin in February, in order to keep up with the influx and BrEATHEr:Project oN SoLId GroUNd: Thediversdivefromajetty which sive overhaul, both in and out of the water. The reservoir increases. As a result we need to make sure that manager Jan Aabrekk of is always situated right above where they work. diver Statkraft talks about the Hans Fornes comes aboard after crossing the lake by Tunhovd dam, originally built as a brick dam of cut parts of the water do not freeze, so that the divers can do execution of the project pulling the rope attached to the raft and land. stone, was completed in 1926, together with the their job.” together with colleague t and dam inspector Ingrid Nore I Power Plant. In the 1960s, the dam was This is done by employing a ‘bubble bath’ technique, Buvarp Aardal. reconstructed as the brick dam was filled with stone from although not as cosy as the one you have in your bathroom. past tunnel excavations, turning it into a rock fill dam. Not The bubble bath in the dam is created by lowering perforated FrozEN: An old lorry in the that this seems to bother the dam where it lies in peaceful rubber hoses into the water, before connecting them to a indefinite long-haul parking near the dam. “Fortuna- surroundings in Nore og Uvdal municipality on Buskerud compressor. Bubbles stream out, keeping a limited area ice tely it is not part of our County. But time has caught up with the Tunhovd dam, as free, allowing divers to work. equipment,” laughs project have stricter requirements. “We work under strict safety regulations, but no one has manager Jon Aarbakk. Project manager Jon Aarbakk says there are many improve- stricter routines than the divers, “ Aarbakk says. “When they ments that must be made from the start in September 2011 dive, they all have cameras attached to their masks, as well until completion of the ‘new’ Tunhovd dam in March 2015. as being in constant contact with a colleague in the control “On the list of improvements, we have increasing the height room through radio. As a result, there are always two who of the dam itself, establishing slope protection and head assess any given task and ensure that all safety measures protection, and installing various electronic measuring instru- are followed.” ments to monitor and manage the dam.” The goal of the upgrades is to make the dam even safer and But it is not the actual structure of the dam that is being more robust than it currently is, and enable it to withstand a upgraded. The dam is actually part of county route 120, and so-called thousand-year flood. The aesthetic of the façade in one area, the road crosses the flood canal. This means a will also be upgraded to modern standards. new bridge crossing, and new and wider road. “Veidekke is the main contractor for the project, so Statkraft “Third person safety considerations are an important part only has a few employees involved in the project manage- of the work being done in the project. Still, the biggest chal- ment team,” Aarbakk says. “So far, the collaboration has lenges are faced by the divers,” Aarbakk says. “The progress worked without a hitch, and I both hope and think it will plan calls for the dam pitching at the bottom of the reservoir continue in the same way.”

20 — StAtkRAft PeoPle & PoWeR — 21 current affairS Environment&technology

Focus on waste and return wood in Bodø FaTal Fall FRom EigHT mETERS Statkraft has a total statkraft varme has received a pledge of Nok 89 million in financial support from enova a 28-year-old man working for a sub-contractor at the Kargi project in of 239 hydropower to construct a district heating facility in bodø which will generate heat and steam. turkey was killed in an tragic accident on 13 december last year. the accident “We are very pleased with the pledge from enova,” says director bjørn hølaas. was caused when a falsework element came unfastened during a lift with a plants. 142 of these “this means one important factor is in place for realising the project, and we mobile crane, fell to the concrete deck below and bounced sideways, hitting the are in Norway, 59 in 1821 28-year-old. the force of the impact was so great that both the worker and the can continue to work on the foundation for the investment decision, which we Statkraft has received licences for de- expect will be made in 2012.” safety barrier were dragged over the edge of the concrete deck, and then fell Sweden, 10 in Germa- the planned facility in bodø is a heat and steam production facility, which veloping wind farms totalling 1821 MW eight meters to the concrete deck below. ny, 4 in Finland, 3 in will use regional waste, return wood and surplus heat as its primary energy capacity. Of this, 267 MW has been devel- “tragic accidents like this should not happen," says executive vice president the UK and 21 located sources. the total energy output will be 172 GWh, including both steam international hydropower, øistein andresen. "it is important that we include the and district heating production. oped and 325 MW is under construction. lesson learned from this incident in our further work to avoid new accidents. 239 outside of Europe.

“politicians must know their limits”

“the politicians and ministries need to know their limitations in the licence processing of power projects. At the same time, the authorities and developers need clearer regulations.” The statement comes from former senior advisor in Statkraft, Bjørn Wold, who has more than 30 years of experience from the “you have every reason Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE) and to be proud” Statkraft, working with public “i like the fact that Norway has hydropower plants every- relations and hydropower licence where, and that 99 per cent of the power consumption comes awards. The recently retired means that those who disagree from renewable sources. you have every reason to be proud of veteran is clear on why it takes with the decision made by NVE yourselves,” Arnold Schwarzenegger said when he visited the so long to get legally binding more often appeal the decision to climate conference for Norwegian environmentalist organisa- tion ZeRo in November. decisions when small and major the ministry. In terms of workload, power projects apply for licences. appeal processing is now almost the former ‘governator’ of California was interviewed before a capacity crowd by Statkraft’s communications SVP bente “The entire licence process has like a licence process in itself.” e. engesland during the conference. later, Schwarzenegger become increasingly politicised in He stresses that the intentions received further information about Statkraft’s activities when the past 10-15 years. In the past, of the politicians are good. At the he met with Ceo Christian Rynning-tønnesen. experts in NVE and other direc- same time, they and the ministries torates, with detailed knowledge often lack the expertise required and long experience from both the to have a good overview and un- good dialogue in Berlin environment and energy, decided, derstanding of the complex issues for the most part, if a planned de- that are found in a major licence in connection with trade paper handelsblatt’s annual ener- velopment was viable,” says Wold. case. There is a risk that opinion giewirtschaft conference, Statkraft, true to tradition, held an “This has changed. Increasingly, and political special interests will annual reception at the Norwegian embassy. this January, it was the eighth time Ambassador Svein erik Svedman welcomed NVE’s decisions are now appealed become crucial in decisions that StAtkRAftACquiReSkJøllefJoRd…ANd bARdufoSS around 70 guests to the embassy in berlin. in his welcome and politicised, which means a come under scrutiny in a long-term speech, Svedman emphasised the energy-economic dialogue prolonged postponement of the social perspective. between Norway and Germany, and noted the importance of final decision.” Wold also believes that the mas- on tuesday 10 january, tive management and monitoring statkraft energi is redeeming The lease Troms Kraft had on Norwegian natural gas in the German energy market. executive While the Ministry’s process- sive media interest in licence cases vice president Asbjørn Grundt of Statkraft praised the intro- Statkraft Central Norway took of the power generation, just as properties, facilities and rights the waterfall rights in Bardufoss ing of appeal cases was formerly contributes to politicians quickly duction of the market award model as a first step to integrate over control of operation of the they do with the management of connected to the Bardufoss Power expired on 1 May 2010. Statkraft renewable energy. often to see if the process had entering the field to take part in, Kjøllefjord Wind Farm in Lebesby our other wind farms on Smøla Plant from Troms Kraft Produksjon. and Troms Kraft disagreed on the been correct according to the and control, the public discourse. each year, the handelsblatt conference gathers more that 1000 municipality in Finnmark County. and Hitra, and the hydropower The sum equals NOK 450 million. rights on the expiration date, until energy experts within politics, science and economics. tradi- applicable legislation, Wold now “They want to be proactive in Siemens Wind Power has operat- facilities in the region,” says The employees at the power an arbitration court in September tionally, Statkraft’s reception takes place during the evening believes that they increasingly what could become long-lasting ed the facility since the opening power plant manager Arild plant will, after a clarification of ruled that the lease had expired of the second day of the conference. this year’s main speakers take in-depth looks at technical debates. Instead, they achieve of the wind farm in the autumn Soleim. “We will also strengthen competition issues, be trans- and that Statkraft was entitled included the German Minister of finance and technology, dr. details and partially overrule the the opposite: They discredit the of 2006, but now Statkraft has the crew at Kjøllefjord. A total ferred to Statkraft. to redeem the power plant. The Phillip Rösler and Minister of environmental Affairs, dr. Norbert discretion of the experts. experts and new bottlenecks Röttgen, as well as the chairmen of energy companies RWe and taken control. of three people handle the daily “I’m pleased that we have agreed power plant is the lowest lying “This makes it difficult for the are constructed. As a result, it enbW. executive vice president Steinar bysveen held a short “The regional dispatch centre tasks associated with operations on the conditions for the transac- on the River Barduelven, and introductory speech on “Challenges in connection with fluctua- players to know who to relate becomes even more difficult to in Luster in Sogn og Fjordane and maintenance of Kjøllefjord tion,” says executive vice president produces about 225 GWh/annu- tions in the power supply”. the conference also provided op- to, and how various issues are get an overview and a correct County will take over the opera- Wind Farm.” Asbjørn Grundt of Statkraft. ally. (Europower) portunities for fruitful conversations with various customers. assessed,” says Wold. “This also decision basis.”

22 — StAtkRAft PeoPle & PoWeR — 23 feature Powerpreparedness

operation daGmar it took only a second before parts of the community were blacked out, and the regional dispatch centre in gaupne lost all communications with its power plants. Candles and mobiles were the weapons in the battle against storm «dagmar».

TExT hanne asKbo PhOTO bjøRgLi & beRgeRsen, hans fRedRiKasbjøRnsen, sCanpix

lost connection: due to a good preparedness plan, the Gaupne regional dispatch centre had designated satellite telephones and walkie -talkies. This way, skilled worker Erling Bjørn Vigdal was able to stay in contact with the rest of the crew during the dramatic Christmas days.

24 — StAtkRAft PeoPle & PoWeR — 25 feature Powerpreparedness

By candlelight, and with his mobile, pen and paper as his only tools, Slinde was able to keep in close contact with the team at the regional dispatch centre. the tough got going: Many contributed to solving the difficult situation over Christmas. Here are some, from left: Regio- nal director Sveinove Slinde, power generation director Tron Engebrethsen, generation manager Tom Ingar Hauståker, on-call at the regional dispatch centre Frode Høyvik, power plant manager Edvard Leirdal and technical manager Kåre Hønsi.

he forecasts had called for plenty paredness plans, and started mobilising peo- of wind during the week before ple. And they came. They left cosy Christmas no power: Sveinove New Year’s Eve, with a storm parties and the warm indoors to make an Slinde led the preparedness efforts by candlelight the peak at around 23.00 hours on effort. Some even climbed over fallen pine first night. tChristmasDay. trees to get to work. At seven o’clock that evening, One of them was Morten Vigdal, area coor- regional director Svein Ove Slinde sent a text dinator ICT in power plant group Sogn, who message to the power plant manager at the was enjoying a quiet Christmas Day at home Smøla wind farm asking how things were go- in Jostedalen Valley, about 30 minutes from ing. The reply was that things are going good, Gaupne by car. He was initially not worried although they could hear the roar of the ocean when the power cut out at around 16.00 in the background – almost like a warning. hours. But when the phone rang a few hours The weather services reported that storm later, he realised the seriousness of the situa- “Dagmar” would be more powerful than storm tion and ran to his car. “Cato”, but not as nasty as the New Year’s storm of 1992. In the afternoon, a confident Trees on the road Svein Ove Slinde left for a dinner party at his “About halfway there, I was stopped by a parents’ place just outside Sogndal. It was still virtual forest on the road, stretching ahead some time before the storm would hit. for 100 metres,” Vigdal says. “I returned to the Jostedalen power plant, and waited for dramatic night the tractor to come and clear the road with its But “Dagmar” saw no need to wait. So when plough. We drove bumper-to-bumper, while the wind started to howl, and there were the tractor crew cleared trees from the road.” reports of hurricane-force gusts, Slinde got in Just outside Gaupne, a wall of trees too his car to return to Gaupne. large for the clearing crew stopped them “Dagmar” had gotten there first. The road in their tracks. Morten Vigdal decided to was littered with trees, making it impossible leave his car, and climb across the trees and to pass. Slinde had to go back. bushes while the wind howled and the world At his parents’ house, he phoned the shook around him. Two colleagues picked him dispatch centre in Gaupne, and learned that up on the other side. At the dispatch centre he they have lost all communications with the realised he spent four hours on the trip, eight power plants, and parts of the Sogn region times longer than usual. are blacked out. The time was 20.12 hours, The storm also prevents others from getting and Slinde realised this will be a long night – a to work, including information manager Norman very long night. Kjærvik. He was on his way to Gaupne with his “At the time, I thought it was just a local wife and two adult children this evening. problem in the grid, and we started looking for “Suddenly we see that several trees had the fault," says Slinde. "As I couldn't make it to fallen down on the road, and we had to turn Gaupne, I spoke with technical manager Kåre around. But on the way back, more trees Hønsi, who was ready to assume control over blocked the road, trapping us,” Kjærvik says. the preparedness effort if I lost coverage on In the car, he and his family felt the forces my mobile.” of nature around them. Roof tiles were thrown But the telephone pulled through. By candle- around, telephone poles were blown over and light, and with his mobile, pen and paper as trees littered the road. his only tools, Slinde was able to keep in close “We were very relieved when we finally man- contact with the team at the regional dispatch aged to get home, at three in the morning, centre. After a while, it became clear that there after eight hours in the car,” he says. are external causes of the breakdown in com- munications, and that the disruption would be Full power production secured more prolonged than initially thought. Most of those who were mobilised when “Dag- At 21.00 hours, Slinde brought out the pre- mar” wanted to dance went straight to the

26 — StAtkRAft PeoPle & PoWeR — 27 feature Powerpreparedness

what we feared most was that toppled trees and thiS iS typical For our culture, and debris would cause short circuits, and in the worst expreSSeS a mindSet we appreciate. case cause fires in the transformer stations. pRoduKsjonsdiReKtøR tRonengebRethsen

RegionaL diReCtoR svein ove sLinde power plants to ensure that production could had both satellite phones and walkie-talkies ations. continue as normal. they could borrow," Vigdal says. “I think this “Dagmar” was a very good proving ground The main challenge was trees toppling over in the field: Skilled worker Arthur was essential in resolving the situation as for us, and has made us very confident that Fossøy (left) and skilled worker Erling power lines, and disruptions in communica- Bjørn Vigdal assess the damage caused quickly as it did.” our system is good enough to handle such tions between the dispatch centre in Gaupne by “dagmar”. It will take some time to winds,” Slinde says. “But we need to rethink «Safetywas and the power plants. A total of eight disrup- clear it all. one outsideline our approach to network and communica- not at risk» tions were registered in Gaupne’s external During these hectic Christmas days, they tions. Luckily, we have several improvement network. Although electricity was restored at worked around the clock. processes underway in this area. During crisis 01.30 on Boxing Day, the regional dispatch “There was plenty to do, both big and situations such as “Dagmar” and major flood- in less than one year, reservoir levels centre and power plants were still without small tasks,” Vigdal says. “One of the most ing, it is critical when the telephone network have gone from record lows to very communications. important jobs was to ensure that the battery- breaks down.” high. in January, the reservoir levels for Norwegian power plants were at 80.3 “What we feared most was that toppled operated communications unit on top of the He stresses that “Dagmar” also showed the per cent, compared with 45.3 per cent trees and debris would cause short circuits, mountain in Jostedalen Valley did not run out importance of having the right people and suf- at the same time last year, according to and in the worst case cause fires in the of fuel. During the day, people went to the ficient local resources. Statnett. Power Generation director tron transformer stations,” Slinde says. “This could mountain top with a generator and petrol, just “We were vulnerable until all the commu- engebrethsen stresses that the topped cause massive damage to our power facilities. to make sure.” nications channels were operational in the off reservoirs pose no risk for the safety Luckily, this didn’t happen.” The solution came on the evening of 27 New Year,” says Svein Ove Slinde. “I’m proud at the power plants. The power plants themselves withstood December. This is when they found a line in that we have a preparedness plan that works “Water levels and water flow are what “Dagmar” threw at them, and only the network between Bergen and Gaupne that so well, and that so many employees worked constantly monitored, and we make daily assessments of the future water minor damage and faults in the facilities were was fault free. The day after, major reconfigu- around the clock to get the system opera- situation in all water systems," says reported. However, the big question on Slinde ration work started, and traffic was rerouted. tional again.” engebrethsen. "if there is too much and his team’s minds was what to do if the “However, we only had one outside line – not Following “Dagmar”, Statkraft will assess water, we have a drainage plan to regu- communications problems turned out to be four as we usually do – but we figured it would both communications systems and prepar- late the water level. both we and the long-lasting? do,” Slinde says. edness. Tron Engebrethsen, director of PG, Norwegian Water Resources and energy A temporary solution was arrived at in the And so it did. On 28 December, at 10.30 wants to take an in-depth look at the digital directorate (NVe) are very focused on safety. there are, for instance, stricter form of collaboration. The region has four hours, the relief in the Gaupne dispatch communications system. dam regulations in place, which means dispatch centres which can take over tasks centre was palpable: People were finally able “It proved to be more vulnerable than we that although we may expect more from the others when needed. Slinde decided to return to their families and continue their thought," says Engebrethsen. "Although the precipitation in the future, we are sure that our dams are safe and that we know that the Sauda dispatch centre would monitor no storm nor trees: Christmas vacation. The preparedness situa- power plants produced as they were sup- Trees in the road forced exactly how much water each dam can and manage power production in Møre og ICT worker Morten Vigdal to walk to work on tion was called off. posed to the entire time, and there was no hold. the dams are inspected at regular Romsdal County. Trondheim established local Christmas Eve. At this point, most of the employees had damage to our facilities, we need to analyse intervals, and all new requirements and management of the power plants in Sør-Trøn- been working non-stop since Christmas Day. the situation and assess alternative communi- knowledge are taken into account. if delag County. Even-André Bolstad, who is an electrical cations solutions. But it is still too early to say the inspection uncovers any faults or Slinde managed to get an overview and specialist, performed tasks for both Statkraft whether we must make changes.” defects, under-dimensioning or changes control of the power plants in Høyanger, Vik and an important job for Luster Energiverk, What he is 100 per cent satisfied with, is to the consequence classification, the and Jostedalen on Boxing Day. Still, the most which saw most of its grid destroyed. He the effort of the crews in Gaupne, Trondheim dams will be strengthened. over the next frustrating aspect of the situation was that almost does not want to say how many hours and Sauda, who cut their Christmas vacations decade, we will spend several billion kroner on upgrades.” the communication problems between the he spent at work. short to roll up their sleeves during the height “however, we can never be sure that ac- regional dispatch centre and the power plants “Or else I’ll get in trouble with the of the storm. cidents won't happen," he adds. "this is were outside Statkraft’s control. Norwegian Labour Inspection Authority,” he “This is typical for our culture, and expresses why we have made preparedness plans “We were fully staffed, but there was nothing says with a smile. a mindset we appreciate,” he says, using an ex- for everything from heavy precipitation we could do with the situation,” Slinde says. ample of team sprit from when storm “Narve” to earthquakes. the worst case scenario “In this case, the preparedness efforts of the looking forward ravaged Northern Norway in January 2006: could be a rock or landslide into a reser- grid and telephone operators failed.” It is now time to assess the preparedness “We had problems with ice forming in the voir on top of a steep mountain side. this will create a flood wave that will cause Local power companies had major commu- plans and look ahead. If the climate experts Bardu river system, and had to send people extensive damage further down the river nications problems. Without mobile coverage are correct, we will have more extreme there to get rid of the ice plug,” Engebrethsen system. it is not likely to happen, but we it was difficult, almost impossible, to work on weather in the future, more wind and more says. “One of the crew was supposed to bap- need to imagine every scenario possible high voltage lines while maintaining safety. all hands on deck: More than 50 personnel sacri- intense and heavier rain falls. tise his grandchild the day after, but felt such when preparing safety plans.” “The power industry is far ahead in terms ficed their Christmas vacation to do their part. One was But after “Dagmar”, Slinde is even more a responsibility for the job that he wanted to “there is a large consensus that Norwe- skilled worker Arve Kvalsvik. This is an expression of a of preparedness, so when the local power go up there and help. We almost had to order gian dams are very safe,” he stresses. work ethic the Statkraft management is very proud of. confident that Statkraft has a preparedness companies lacked internal communication, we system able to handle extreme weather situ- him to get the baptism done first.”

28 — StAtkRAft PeoPle & PoWeR — 29 hydroPower Reservoirs

A MASSiVe ReNeWAble Blåsjø 7,8 TWh Røssvatn 2,0 TWh bAtteRy 1Lake Blåsjø is the ninth 3Lake Røssvatn became, follow- largest lake in Norway, ing damming in 1957, the second and was created by damming largest lake in Norway, with an area of the eu countries are planning to sig- several smaller lakes. The lake 219 square kilometres. The reservoir nificantly increase the use of renewable is located partially in Aust-Agder is located in Hattfjelldal and Hemnes energy sources in the years ahead. the County and partially in Rogaland municipalities in Nordland County. Lake project “renewable battery” aims to County, and is the reservoir for Røssvatn is the main reservoir for the help them on their way.

the Ulla-Førre power plants. Øvre and Nedre Røssåga power stations. TExT Cato gjeRtsen PhOTO KRistian LøKsa

“renewaBleBattery” is a Statkraft project Their latest estimates state that the two ca- initiated on the basis of the EU climate and bles, which will have a transmission capacity renewables goal of 20 per cent share of re- of 1400 MW each, would be ready for use in Store akersvatn 1,5 TWh newable energy by 2020. In order to achieve 2018 and 2021,” Holmen says. Statkraft’slargest batteries 4Lake Store Akersvatn is a lake in this target, the share of renewable energy One of Statkraft’s most important tasks in Rana Municipality in Nordland County, here’s the list of Norway’s five largest hydropower reservoirs – measured by energy content. must be increased significantly compared the project is to propose solutions to Stat- and is a reservoir for the Rana power plants. with current levels. However, a large propor- nett, in how the grid and production facilities tion of this growth will take place using the can interact, so that we achieve the greatest not-so-reliable wind power. As we all know, possible utilisation of the cables. Another winds do blow hard at times, and little or important task is to stimulate demand. nothing other times. The consequence is This involved workshops and meetings in that some of the power production becomes Germany and the UK, to raise awareness less reliable. At times, there will be a surplus about the Norwegian possibilities and their of wind power, but during less windy periods, potential with policymakers. Thus far, there there might be a deficit. is great interest in the cable in Germany, but not as much in the UK. increased reliaBility. “Our motivation for the Renewable Battery project is to increase mapping competitors. “We are also the value of Norwegian hydropower by working to assess the competitiveness of producing and delivering balancing power Norwegian hydropower. Gas producers can from the Norwegian hydropower system also contribute flexibility, and there is poten- to the Continent and the UK," says project tial for pumped-storage plants in the Alps. manaager Marianne Holmen. "However, this However, these pumped-storage plants will requires increased cable capacity.” be about as far away from the wind power She explains that the Norwegian hydro- belt in Northern Germany as our plants power system is complex. By changing the in Norway. If surplus power from North- current scheduling pattern, flexibility can be ern Germany is to be transmitted across realised by exporting and importing power the country, it would require massive grid based on capacity, supply, demand and reinforcements. This job will probably not be price in the various markets. The flexibility easier than building a cable to Norway.” of the Norwegian hydropower system can Holmen says it is difficult to provide one be further strengthened by upgrading and answer to the question of how many cables expanding existing facilities or constructing will be required to the Continent. Storglomvatn 3,5 TWh new pumped-storage power plants between “The market indicates that in the long term existing reservoirs in areas that are already there will be a need for more flexible power. Lake Storglomvatn is a regu- 2 Songavatn 1,4 TWh regulated. We are therefore working to assist and lated lake in Meløy Municipality “The plan is that flexible power will be motivate the construction of more than the in Nordland County. The reservoir is 5Lake Songavatn is a dammed lake exchanged between Norway and Germany two planned cables sometime in the future. used for production at the Svartisen in Vinje municipality in Telemark and the UK and Norway, along the seabed The main focus today is to start building the power plant in the Holand fjord. County, and is part of the Skien river system. The lake is the reservoir for the in large cables, orthrough 'intermediate first one, so that parts of our power produc- Songa power plant. countries' technically speaking. In practical tion will act as a massive environmentally terms, only Statnett can build these cables. friendly battery for the EU.”

30 — StAtkRAft PeoPle & PoWeR — 31 thePoSition Morgan Rubensson

it’s important to have a bit of fun on the job. Being a manager is a bit like being on stage.

StAR PoWeR frOm SOutHern SWeden

Morgan Rubensson (37) is not your average power plant manager.

TExT andeRs møLsteR gaLaasen PhOTO Katja andeRsson

32 — StAtkRAft PeoPle & PoWeR — 33 Stillingen Morgan Rubensson

Facts morganruBensson

age: 37 grew up: torup, sweden lives: halmstad, sweden position: power plant manager (power plant group Laholm) education: development the theatre is a very intense place, you learn a bit engineer from halmstad university College about group dynamics. how people react to stress. civil status: married, two children these are things that are easily transferrable. outside work: active in the “göörglad” amateur theatre troupe, with the annual halmstad Cabaret production, used to play a lot of football.

barefooted 37-year-old power plant manager stands in the half-dark of an almost empty theatre hall, singing his heart A out against the injustices in the local community. The entire week has been spent in London together with Statkraft’s management development programme. He has been suited up. Focused. Business-minded. Now, finally at home, he has traded his suit for his pirate outfit: Black breeches and a feathered hat. Morgan Rubensson spends his weekends on the stage, and learning show tunes by heart. “It wasn’t all there today, eh? The first run- through is always a bit iffy.” The charismatic pirate smiles with self- reproach after Saturday’s seven-hour session. On Sunday, they have another seven hours of memorising and rehearsals. The amateur troupe “Göörglad” does not play around. In two short weeks, it is opening night for this year’s production – the Halmstad Cabaret. A After several dancing and singing acts, the 20 people who report to him. technicians,” Rubensson says. “Personally, I What aspects of the theatre have been use- power plant at Laholm, an idyllic place next to full house is expected. body also needs to be topped off with energy He joined the Statkraft family in 2009, as didn’t have the same passion for it, but luck- ful as a manager? an old castle ruin from the 1200s, a wife who “We’ve built up a very loyal audience over the apparently. a result of the transaction between Statkraft ily, there’s more to engineering than just the “Working as a group to achieve results. Mo- is also involved in the troupe, and two children years, not just friends and family. We’ve actu- “That being said, I almost always think, 'why and German utilities company E.ON. The technical aspect. Today I’m glad I chose such bilising the energy and achieving something who give him plenty of energy. So perhaps it is ally won the Swedish cabaret championships a am I doing this again?' before opening night. transition meant that Rubensson went from a broad education.” together. The theatre is a very intense place, not so strange that Rubensson seems content few times, so we should manage to sell out 16 I could’ve been at home on the sofa, relax- being an expertise manager in E.ON to the Still, his doubts led him to work as a teacher for with the state of things. But he is careful not performances,” Rubensson says optimistically. ing with a movie. But when that curtain goes top position in the Laholm power plant group, a few years – and as a professional troubadour. to relax too much. up, and the adrenaline gets going, something one of Statkraft’s five power plant groups in The latter was in fact a source of income for “I really enjoy this job, and being in Statkraft,” adrenaline-charged happens; then my inner exhibitionist comes to Sweden. Rubensson and his brother from their early 20s. it’S very the versatile Swede says. “There are great Age is one thing. His boyish looks another. life,” the father of two says with a chuckle. You are quite young to have this much “We had our own business, and travelled development opportunities in this job, and His informal, winning demeanour is a third. Being the father of two whirlwinds aged five responsibility? around and performed at Christmas parties SatiSFyinG to Be that is important to me. My motto is that life There is actually quite a lot about Morgan and seven, as well as being in charge of 23 “I’m a bit younger than the average, but and company parties. My brother played while part oF BuildinG is like a balloon. When I challenge myself, the Rubensson that does not fit with our image of small and medium-sized power plants across I don’t think about it that much. And that I sang – or spoke. We mixed cover songs with balloon grows. But if I tie up the balloon, it will a power plant manager. But what really sets Halland County, the 37-year old has more than means others don’t think about it. Age is just our own songs. It was a great time.” SomethinGnew shrink. It’s about constantly adding new air to this engineer apart is his willingness to spend enough to keep busy. a number. It is a cliché, but it’s true.” Eventually, the engineer defeated the trou- the balloon. Continue to challenge myself.” evenings and weekends throughout winter to “These are exciting times,” Rubensson says. badour. At least during office hours. However, So what better way to do that that than to make amateur theatre. We’ve been through a major restructuring Scenes from a christmas party according to Rubensson, the troubadour sign up for the Gothenburg Marathon in May? “There are those that would rather die than this past year. In line with Statkraft tradition, Looking back, it is slightly surprising that he sometime sneaks off with him to work. you learn a bit about group dynamics. How The last time, Morgan ran the half marathon, be on a stage in front of an audience – I get we’ve insourced parts of the activities that has made it this far in such a short time. After “I don’t start every meeting with a song, and people react to stress. These are things that and according him, there wasn’t much air left a kick out of it. When everything works and were previously handled by a contractor. This graduating as a development engineer from I think most people are glad I don’t,” Rubens- are easily transferrable.” in the balloon at the finish line. the audience responds. That is a very special means we’ve grown significantly. We’re now Halmstad University College, Rubensson son says. “But I do think I bring a part of the “I’ve done it once before, and I hit the wall. experience, that generates a lot of energy,” responsible for the maintenance of 15 of our had some doubts about whether he actually performer with me to work. It’s important to Still air in the balloon People with pushcarts passed me. So there Rubensson says, quenching his thirst with an power plants. It’s very satisfying to be part of wanted to work as an engineer. have a bit of fun on the job. Being a manager He has an exciting job, a workplace in continu- is room for improvement. This year, I’ll go the ice-cold Coca-Cola. building something new.” He now has around “My class had a number of really great is a bit like being on stage.” ous development right next to the unique distance.”

34 — StAtkRAft PeoPle & PoWeR — 35 technology & the environment

wind measure- knowledge ment: department head Linn rognlien and meteorologist Måns aboutthe Håkansson analyse wind conditions and consider actual wind re- cutting down the forest at the Baillie Wind Farm in Scotland. The objective sources is strate- Sixapplications is to make the wind farm yieldedsix licences evenmoreprofitable. gicallyimportant Wind asers for Statkraft. in december 2008, Statkraft and SCA applied for licences to ch develop six wind farms in Jämtland and Västernorrland counties in Central Sweden. three years later, we achieved a full score: All he Wind & Site department will six projects now have legally valid licences. combine map expertise and meteor- before Christmas last year, the Swedish land and environment Supreme Court approved Statkraft’s and SCA’s planned wind farms in bodhögarna, Ögonfägnaden and björkhöjden- ology with engineering expertise so björkvattnet. Statkraft SCA Vind Ab had already received licences for Raftsjöhöjden, Stamåsen tthat Statkraft becomes one of the and Mörtjärnberget. the latter two are under construction, and the turbines at Stamåsen will most profitable and cost-efficient be installed this summer. the Statkraft SCA Vind Ab project portfolio comprises a total power players in onshore wind power. generation of 2 tWh. Department head Linn Rognlien has worked within the field for almost two years, and now has a map expert and two meteorologists on Turbinator is here! The Turbinator is designed as a theturbinator was recently installed at her team. pipe which is directly connected The unit can best be compared with the the heggset dam in tydal. the unit makes to previous discharge pipes, and hydrologists in the hydropower business unit. it easier to operate a low-pressure hydro- weighs a total of 3.5 tonnes. power plant. it is a compact unit where the Previously Statkraft bought expertise from generator and turbine are in the same unit, consultancy firms, but now is building the and the components have been sealed to expertise internally. withstand water. the turbinator was developed by increasingprofitaBility. “Knowledge of the the kristiansund Company CleanPower wind resource itself is strategically impor- AS. Statkraft played a vital role in the development, installing the prototype at tant for Statkraft," says Linn Rognlien. "It will the minimum water level at heggset dam contribute to prioritising the right projects in the autumn of 2010, in a iR&d project (in- for development, and maximising our profit dustrial Research & development project), from what we do develop. We want to avoid partially financed by innovation Norway. hindsight.” during the process, several minor prob- The department supports project developers lems were solved locally by personnel from Maintenance Group tydal, particu- by predicting production in planned farms, larly during the installation. estimating the optimal location of turbines “it appears we will reach the goal to en- within an area and describing the turbine ter safe and sound commercial operations type best suited. The department also carries in 2012. We’re very pleased with the efforts out follow-up studies of the wind conditions of our own employees and our coopera- in existing wind farms to see if the turbines tion with CleanPower. this is pioneering kNoWSWheRe technology we’ll gladly show to others,” produce as expected. says ove berggård, section head at the The main focus is on land-based wind power technical department in trondheim. the WiNd bloWS in Sweden and the UK, together with offshore CleanPower has already received orders wind power. Agder Energi, Statkraft’s partner for three 1 MW turbinators from ebdhydro in SAE Vind, has a similar environment work- llC in oregon, uSA. Statkraft’s wind power business unit has established a new department with ing on Norwegian projects. wind experts. The goal is to find out more about the actual wind resources, varying wind conditions. As an example of the differences in wind conditions, Linn SaE Vind celebrates and by doing so, become better at predicting revenue from wind farms. Rognlien mentions Baillie in Scotland and the statkraft agder energi vind (sae vind) tezt and Photo toRbjøRn steen projects in the SCA partnership in Sweden. In has received a licence to expand the the agricultural landscape on the northern- existing wind farm at hitra in sør- most tip of Scotland, 65-metre high towers trøndelag county by 75 mw. are optimum, while estimates show that the hitra 2 will be an expansion of the wind towers used in Sweden should be 50 metres farm on eldsfjellet. the existing wind farm taller than that. was constructed by Statkraft and came The Wind & Site department recently carried on line in october 2004. the facility has out analyses of the wind farm area on Baillie 24 wind turbines, with a total installed capacity of 55 MW. SAe Vind has received Hill in Scotland. Preliminary results indicate a licence to expand by another 75 MW. the The Hitra 2 licence was celebrated with cake in SAE that the farm’s output could be increased by a total production from hitra 1 and 2 can Vind. From left: managing director Anders Gaudestad, few percentage points if planted forest inside then reach 300 GWh, enough to supply Hitra 2 project manager Harald Kristoffersen and project the farm is removed. almost 15 000 households. director Knut A. Mollestad

36 — StAtkRAft PeoPle & PoWeR — 37 hr Employeesurvey

Facts wants to stRengthen the performance management No feARS peRfoRmanCe CuLtuRe: performancemanagement – is about creating condi- tions to encourage employees to take responsibility for He just delivered his first annual report for Statkraft. At the same time, their own performance and development. it includes statKRaft wiLL beCome moRe peRfoRmanCe-oRiented activities that ensure that an employee, department or executive vice president Jens Staff works to make sure we all deliver. eaCh empLoYee wiLL get new goaLs organisation reaches its objectives. kpi – Key performance indicators is a method to provide TExT ChRisteR giLje PhOTO espen soLLi gReateRCoRReLation between peRfoRmanCe and bonus regular assessments of goal achievement in an organisa- tion, business unit or department. Kpis can be purely result-based goals, or they could be goals for zero injuries, maximum implementation time, etc.

sources: wikipedia, gRow – senter for prestasjonsledelse

s responsible for finance, our business reviews are being introduced in as a group, and ensure that we have more fRom o oiLt new Chief Financial Officer (CFO) Statkraft, so that all departments will report integrated processes across the company. My at t must often tell colleagues, ana- on a quarterly basis. The first review will be at vision is to create a well-functioning interna- st KRaf stat lysts, media and politicians how the end of March. tional group with good, scalable processes Awe manage our assets. At the “We believe this could be a way of learning and systems that can easily be implemented same time he also has overall more from each other across the organisa- in new countries and units as needed.” responsibility for how we measure company tion, and therefore we will gather the entire performance, or reporting and performance corporate management and members from Fewer reports management. So how do you go about ensur- their management teams for the reviews,” Some may fear that there will be a lot of ing that 3400 employees work towards the says Staff. “Our hope is that this process will reporting and less time to do the daily tasks in same goal? contribute to a stronger Statkraft with a per- the time ahead. Not so, according to Staff. “It all starts with strategy, and identifying formance and result-oriented culture.” “We actually want to cut down on the number various activities needed to realise this,” CFO New goals will also be introduced for the of reports,” he says with a smile, and talks Jens Staff says. individual employee through the goal and about systems that are better adjusted and with “Statkraft has an annual planning process, development conversation. Achievement of greater automation. He wants less time spent which has been revised through a project that these goals, either individually or through the on the actual reporting process, and more time started before my time.” department you work in, will form the basis spent on analyses and preparation work. Improvement proposals are submitted to the management from all levels of the organisa- tion, and it is mainly the line that has pro- you need to have SomethinG to Strive For. posed goals and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for their areas. In January, corporate havinG GoalS we reach every time iS not management decided on the final goals and very eFFective. inStead, we Should have am- KPIs for all business and staff areas for 2012. “Most major companies have a system BitiouSGoalS that we don’t alwayS reach. for goals and performance to ensure that everybody works to support the company’s strategy,” Staff says. for payment of variable wages. This means a Statkraft’s new CFO came from Statoil to “Having clear goals and reporting how greater correlation between each individual Statkraft last autumn, where he held several one succeeds is important in establishing a employee’s goal and performance and the management positions within finance. He performance-based culture,” Staff says. “You personal bonus they receive. chose Statkraft as it is a major company need to have something to strive for. Having Staff stresses that the changes are not a which also plays a significant role in renew- goals we reach every time is not very effec- result of poor employee performance. able energy, and will become even larger and tive. Instead, we should have ambitious goals “Since I started here, I’ve met many highly more important within the field in the future. that we don’t always reach.” proficient and dedicated colleagues,” he says. “As a company we are part of the solution “Statkraft is teeming with hard-working and to some major problems, both in terms of the Strategy at the base competent employees. Things work well, but increased need for energy and because we The overall objective when measuring a we have perhaps not taken the full conse- need to reduce our carbon emissions," Staff department’s or employee’s performance, is quence of Statkraft now being a major, inter- concludes. "We now have an ambition to grow to ensure that what one does, and how one national group into account. In some areas, even more and become even more internation- Jens Staff chose renewable does it, actually contributes to the enterprise such as Reporting and Performance manage- al. With the solid core expertise we bring to the energy reaching its strategic goals. For this reason, ment, we must think more comprehensively world, we will help make a difference.”

38 — StAtkRAft PeoPle & PoWeR — 39 the hiStory leSSon The Kobbelv river system

h oug en r for WaTe 0 20s of year Tion ump cons ) ue Th

Shuttle service for power plant development d an

developing the kobbelv river system at Salten in Nordland County in the 1980s kne

was neither a small nor easy task. At times, there was a steady stream of helicopters Se airlifting parts and equipment, as we see in this photo above Lake Reinoksvannet. A by r” total of eight lakes were included in the development, and the result was a reservoir of wate

1.5 billion cubic metres – equal to 200 years’ water consumption in the city of Bodø. e To be a bit technical, the ‘milder’ reservoir percentage is 320. In practical terms, this th d

means that the Kobbelv Power Plant can operate as normal for more than three years me ta

without any rain. The power station itself was constructed inside the mountain on the y

east bank of Lake Kobbelv, and began operation in 1987. The gross elevation differ- he “T

ence is 611 metres, and two units yield 150 MW each. The facilities, which include e:

two Francis turbines, were selected to utilise the reservoirs during years with little rc ou

precipitation. The average annual production is 725 million kWh. (S

40 — StAtkRAft