NVE Adopts License Conditions Requiring Biodiversity Action Plan for Åmela Power Station

Thu, 23 Apr 2026 07:42:56 +0000
Energy

NVE has adopted new license conditions for the Åmela hydroelectric facility operated by Tussa Energi AS in Møre og Romsdal and Vestland counties, requiring the company to prepare a landscape and environmental action plan for four affected watercourses. NVE rejected minimum water-flow requirements and fish ladder construction, finding that power generation and supply security outweigh the marginal environmental gains, and that salmon and sea trout were never present above the waterfalls before or after regulation. The decision marks the first license revision completed under NVE's newly delegated authority from the Energy Ministry effective January 1, 2026. A three-week appeal period applies.