ABB Secures Control Systems Contract for Illvatn Pumped Storage Plant in Norway

Strategic Hydropower Investment by Norsk Hydro

Norsk Hydro has awarded ABB a major contract to deliver control and electrical systems for the Illvatn pumped storage hydropower plant in western Norway. This $265 million project represents Hydro’s largest hydropower investment in over two decades and is designed to strengthen renewable energy supply for aluminium production.

Expanding Renewable Power Capacity

The Illvatn facility will add 107 GWh of net annual renewable electricity, with a gross increase of 210 GWh. By integrating into the Fortun hydropower system in the Sogn region, the plant will enhance flexibility and stability in Hydro’s energy portfolio. Water will be pumped from the Fivlemyrane reservoir at 1,018 meters to Illvatn at 1,382 meters, increasing storage capacity by 90 million cubic meters.

ABB’s Industrial Automation Scope

ABB will supply a distributed control system (DCS), cybersecurity solutions, medium-voltage switchgear, transformers, low-voltage AC/DC systems, vibration monitoring instrumentation, and cabling with installation services. These industrial automation solutions will ensure reliable operation, seamless integration, and long-term system resilience.

Transmission Line Innovation

Hydro will construct a 13 km transmission line between Fivlemyr power station and Sveinsøystølen. Notably, the 48 pylons will be built from aluminium instead of steel, showcasing sustainable material use and reinforcing Hydro’s commitment to innovation in industrial automation and energy infrastructure.

Industry Expertise and Reliability

ABB’s proven expertise in hydropower automation and protection systems was a decisive factor in securing the contract. According to Hydro’s technical leadership, ABB’s reliable solutions and engineering competence make them the ideal partner for this complex pumped storage project.

Author’s Technical Commentary

From an industrial automation perspective, this project highlights the growing importance of advanced DCS platforms and integrated monitoring systems in hydropower. Cybersecurity is now a critical requirement, ensuring operational safety in increasingly digitalized energy infrastructures. Moreover, the use of aluminium pylons demonstrates how material innovation can align with sustainability goals while supporting heavy-duty transmission needs.

Application Scenarios

• Energy Transition Projects: Pumped storage plants integrated with DCS and PLC systems for balancing renewable energy.

• Industrial Aluminium Production: Stable renewable power supply supporting continuous factory automation processes.

• Grid Flexibility Solutions: Enhanced storage capacity enabling peak load management and frequency regulation.