Norway: Statkraft’s Mår hydropower plant upgrade

Norway's energy landscape is on the cusp of a significant transformation with Statkraft's ambitious "Nye Mår" project. This planned upgrade and expansion of the Mår hydropower plant in Rjukan, Tinn municipality, Telemark, represents a substantial investment in the nation's renewable energy future. With a proposed budget of NOK 9 billion for the main build, and a potential additional NOK 5 billion for a future pumped-storage phase, this project underscores Norway's commitment to enhancing its hydropower capabilities and securing its position as a clean energy leader. As of June 29, 2026, Statkraft has filed its licence application with the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE), marking a crucial step in this major infrastructure endeavor.

Statkraft's Vision for Nye Mår: A NOK 9 Billion Hydropower Leap

The "Nye Mår" project isn't just an upgrade; it's a complete reimagining of the existing Mår hydropower plant. Statkraft, the owner and operator, envisions a state-of-the-art facility significantly increasing Norway's renewable energy output. The core of this project involves constructing a new power plant approximately 1,000 meters further into the mountain, a substantial undertaking requiring advanced engineering and construction techniques. This strategic relocation aims to optimize water flow and generation efficiency, moving the intake to the Kalhovd reservoir and the outlet to Tinnsjøen.

The financial commitment from Statkraft is considerable, with NOK 9 billion allocated for the primary construction phase. This figure alone translates to an estimated USD 0.85–0.90 billion, reflecting the scale and complexity of the proposed works. What's particularly intriguing is the forward-looking nature of the project: Statkraft has also outlined plans for a potential future pumped-storage expansion, which could add another NOK 5 billion (roughly USD 0.45–0.50 billion) to the total investment. This phased approach suggests a long-term vision for energy security and flexibility within Norway's grid. For bid managers and project developers keen on tracking such significant energy investments, keeping an eye on developments through platforms like TendersGo will be essential as the project progresses from planning to procurement.

Technical Scope and Capacity Expansion: A New Era for Mår

The technical ambition behind the Nye Mår project is truly impressive. The current Mår hydropower plant has a capacity of 180 MW, generating around 1,140 GWh annually. Statkraft's plan will see this capacity surge to 520 MW in the new plant, with an anticipated annual generation of approximately 1,300 GWh. This represents a significant boost in clean energy production for Norway, contributing to national and regional energy targets.

Beyond the initial upgrade, the optional future expansion to include pumped-storage capabilities is a game-changer. This would further increase the plant's generation capacity to 1,040 MW and introduce an equal 1,040 MW of pumping capacity. Such a system would provide critical grid stability, allowing excess energy from other sources (like wind or solar) to be stored and then released when demand is high. The construction will involve a new tunnel between the reservoirs, though Statkraft wisely plans to reuse parts of the existing tunnel infrastructure, a smart move for both cost-efficiency and environmental impact. Understanding these technical specifications is crucial for any firm considering future bids, as specialized expertise in tunneling, hydroelectric turbine installation, and power plant construction will be paramount.

The Licensing Phase: Navigating Norwegian Regulatory Waters

As of June 29, 2026, the Nye Mår project is firmly in the licensing and planning phase, following Statkraft's application to the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE). This is a critical period in any major infrastructure project in Norway, as the NVE conducts thorough reviews encompassing technical feasibility, environmental impact, and social considerations. The Norwegian regulatory framework is robust, ensuring that large-scale developments meet stringent standards for sustainability and community benefit.

While the full environmental and social impact assessment findings are not yet publicly detailed in the available project notices, it is a standard and mandatory part of the NVE's review process. Companies interested in participating in this project should closely monitor the NVE's announcements and any public hearings that may arise. Understanding the specific environmental mitigation strategies and social compensation packages will be vital for potential contractors, as adherence to these will be a key component of project execution. Keeping abreast of these regulatory developments is made easier with tools like TendersGo AI Assistance , which can help distill complex regulatory documents and project updates.

Procurement Outlook: What to Expect for Contractors and Suppliers

With the project still in its licensing phase, no tenders have been released, nor have any contractors or bidders been identified. This means the procurement window is yet to open, offering a valuable opportunity for companies to prepare. Statkraft’s funding for Nye Mår comes from its corporate investment and internal capital plan, part of a broader NOK 70 billion Norwegian hydropower upgrade program. This indicates a direct procurement process led by Statkraft, rather than through international development bank loans or public-private partnerships.

Companies looking to engage with this project should anticipate a competitive bidding environment. Statkraft, as a major state-owned energy company, typically seeks highly qualified and experienced firms. Expect requirements for proven track records in large-scale hydropower construction, tunneling, electro-mechanical installations, and environmental management. Firms with expertise in complex underground construction, high-capacity turbine and generator supply, and advanced control systems will likely be well-positioned. Suppliers of specialized materials, heavy machinery, and environmental consulting services should also prepare to engage. Setting up unlimited email alerts on TendersGo for Norway and the energy sector would be a proactive step to ensure no tender goes unnoticed once they are released.

Preparing for Bids: Documentation and Qualification Requirements

While specific tender documents are not yet available, prospective bidders can start preparing based on typical requirements for major Norwegian infrastructure projects. Companies will likely need to demonstrate robust financial health, extensive experience in similar projects, and adherence to stringent Norwegian health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards. Certification to international quality management standards (e.g., ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001) is often a prerequisite.

Key documentation will likely include detailed company profiles, audited financial statements for recent years, project references with contactable clients, and comprehensive HSE policies and performance records. Technical proposals will need to outline methodologies for construction, equipment specifications, project management plans, and risk assessments. Given the project's location and scope, local content requirements or partnerships with Norwegian firms might also be encouraged or mandated. Companies can begin to prepare by updating their organization profiles on platforms like TendersGo , ensuring all relevant certifications and project experience are readily accessible for future bid submissions.

Navigating the Norwegian Procurement Landscape: Tips for International Bidders

For international firms, understanding the nuances of Norwegian procurement culture is paramount. Transparency, efficiency, and a strong emphasis on quality and sustainability are hallmarks of the Norwegian approach. Communication is generally direct and professional, and adherence to deadlines is strictly enforced. While English is widely spoken in business, official tender documents might be issued in Norwegian, requiring professional translation services. Platforms like TendersGo's B2B global marketplace can assist in finding local partners or translation services.

Building local relationships can be highly beneficial, whether through joint ventures, sub-contracting agreements, or local representation. This not only helps navigate local regulations and labor laws but also demonstrates a commitment to the Norwegian market. Prospective bidders should also familiarize themselves with Norwegian labor practices and collective agreements, as these often influence project costs and timelines. As the Nye Mår project moves from licensing to procurement, companies that have done their homework and prepared thoroughly will undoubtedly stand the best chance of securing a role in this transformative Norwegian energy initiative.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Norwegian Hydropower

The Nye Mår project is more than just an upgrade; it's a significant indicator of Norway's strategic direction in energy. By substantially increasing hydropower capacity and potentially integrating pumped-storage capabilities, Statkraft is reinforcing Norway's role as a reliable supplier of clean, flexible energy in Europe. This project, along with Statkraft's broader NOK 70 billion investment program in Norwegian hydropower, signals a sustained period of opportunity for the energy sector. For companies specializing in civil engineering, power generation equipment, and energy infrastructure, keeping a close watch on the developments of Nye Mår through detailed search functions and saved searches on TendersGo will be key to participating in Norway's evolving energy future.