There will be a significant increase in hydropower production – NRK Vestland

There will be a significant increase in hydropower production

The Center Party wants a sharp increase in hydropower production in Vestland. If the party gets its way, production will increase by 7 terawatt-hours, which corresponds to the electricity consumption of about 500,000 households.

Today, annual hydropower production is 35 TWh in Vestland. – Hydroelectric energy is collected in storage, ensuring consumers and businesses stable energy to a much greater extent than, for example, wind energy. It is important that Norway has its own form of authority that guarantees us access, says Sigrid Bratabo Handgaard, leader of the Sep group in the county council.

She points out that the need for energy is great in Vestland and elsewhere in the country, and that our province must bear its share of responsibility.

The SP politician points out that a license has already been granted for the development of 4 TWh in Vestland, a project that has not yet been developed.

– If production is increased by 7 kWh, will this lead to the development of pristine nature?

– New power plants must be built. She says this is a conflict of goals that we face when we have to ensure that citizens have access to clean, renewable energy while at the same time not affecting pristine nature.

Sp will also develop protected watercourses, but only if this is necessary to achieve flood protection.

The matter comes in relation to the regional renewable energy plan for the period from 2023 to 2035, which will be presented to the county council this week.

It is uncertain whether Sp Publishing will be approved, but if they bring Høgre and Frp with them, the majority is certain.

Vestland County Council is the hearing body regarding electric power development.