Opposition grows against power line project from Skage to Rørvik in Norway

Torbjørn Lindseth from Motvind Norge expresses strong opposition to the proposed power line from Skage in Overhalla to Rørvik in Nærøysund, warning that it will lead to increased grid fees and higher electricity costs. The project, estimated to cost around one billion Norwegian kroner, is being developed by the Trøndelag-based utility company Tensio, which claims that an upgrade is essential to meet the energy demands of local businesses, including potential electrification of oil and gas platforms and the expansion of wind power in the area.

Kenneth Brandsås, the CEO of Tensio, emphasizes the importance of enhancing electricity access for coastal industries, stating that this infrastructure will support ambitious regional growth for the next 50 years and facilitate the electrification of offshore platforms from land-based sources.

However, concerns are rising among local political groups, such as the Trøndelag Labour Party, over a possible electricity shortage if these platforms are electrified. Lindseth points out that the new 65-kilometer power line will cut through untouched nature and areas used for reindeer grazing.

Tensio aims to minimize environmental impact by positioning the new power line close to existing routes and dismantling obsolete infrastructure post-construction. The plan also involves electrifying oil and gas platforms in the Halten area, with Equinor leading the initiative. The Norwegian government has approved electrification for several offshore fields, aiming for significant reductions in CO₂ emissions.

The financial burden largely falls on local consumers, who will be expected to cover 90% of construction costs, potentially increasing household electricity bills by up to 2,200 kroner by 2030 due to infrastructure investments. Meanwhile, over 83,000 households’ worth of power will be needed for the platforms, highlighting a critical need for enhanced electricity supply in the region to support local businesses and renewable energy initiatives.