Newsroom - AFK Vannkraft - Hydropower
Increasing renewable energy production
“By utilizing our renewable resources, Kilandsfoss provides energy and jobs that contribute to the transition of the Norwegian society,” says Sigbjørn Gjelsvik, Minister of Local Government and Regional Development.
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At an event marking the initial construction phase of Kilandsfoss hydropower plant, Gjelsvik talked about the importance of building industry and communities.
“I know that Arendals Fossekompani has worked on this project for a long time, searching for solutions together with Froland and Åmli municipalities. I am delighted to see that you have found a way forward”, said Gjelsvik to a group of stakeholders gathered at Bøylefoss.
Located in the river Nidelva, between Arendals Fossekompani’s two existing hydropower plants, Kilandsfoss will produce 38 GWh per year, equivalent to the energy consumption of approximately 2,000 households.
“For Arendals Fossekompani, this is a historic day. Our hydropower plants Bøylefoss and Flatenfoss were opened in 1913 and 1927, respectively. Hence, Kilandsfoss is our first newbuild in almost 100 years. We are pleased to see this project being realized,” said Benjamin Golding, CEO of Arendals Fossekompani.
MORE RENEWABLE ENERGY
Kilandsfoss will extract more energy from a river that already provides lots of energy to society. The flow of water in Nidelva has been regulated by the hydropower industry for more than a century.
“The Agder region needs more energy, Norway needs more energy, and the world needs more renewable energy. Building Kilandsfoss is a small contribution to this. We are very excited to get started,” said Camilla Levinsen, Business Developer and Project Manager at Arendals Fossekompani.
Partners in the Kilandsfoss project are the municipalities of Froland and Åmli, each with one-third ownership.
“We are pleased to contribute to the production of more green energy. This is an important project from which Froland expects to profit in the long run,” said Ove Gundersen, Mayor of Froland.
“Kilandsfoss is not the largest of projects, but still a step in the right direction. We need more energy to fulfill the ambitions and plans we have for our region,” said Bjørn Gunnar Baas, Mayor of Åmli.
Estimated build time is approximately two years. Kilandsfoss hydropower plant is scheduled to start production of electricity in 2026.