Hamang-Bærum-Smestad

Renewed electrisity connection from Hamang to Smestad in Oslo.

Statnett have applied to NVE for a license to replace the existing power line between Hamang and Smestad substations. 

We are applying for two alternatives in prioritized order. Firstly, we apply for overhead lines. In accordance with authority policies, we applyfor cable in trench as a second priority. Both overhead lines and cable in trench are technical solutions that will secure future supply of electricity in Greater Oslo.

On August 30, 2021, the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE) granted Statnett a license for the construction and operation of an approximately 12 km long overhead power line between Hamang and Smestad. NVE received 360 complaints regarding the decision. The Ministry of Petroleum and Energy is currently handling the appeals case regarding NVE's decision.

 

 

Background

The current overhead lines between Hamang and Smestad were built in 1952. They are approaching the end of their technical lifespan and need upgrading. In addition, growth in electricity consumption in Oslo and Akershus could happen fairly soon, according to the consumption prognoses for the Greater Oslo Grid Plan.

To handle the growth in consumption, we will begin with measures that give the fastest increase in capacity. On cold winter days, supply to Greater Oslo is from the west. Consequently, we need to reinforce one of the interconnectors from that direction.

A renewed electricity connection from Hamang to Smestad will be the quickest measure and important for the power system. Statnett has therefore started studying a potential interconnector from Hamang to Smestad, which will replace the current 300-kV overhead line.

Bærum substation is located between Hamang and Smestad. This station also needs upgrading.

  • Conducting subsurface surveys for Hamang-Smestad

    The main grid in Oslo and Akershus is old and the growth in electricity consumption is increasing. Consequently, we need to upgrade the electricity connection between Hamang and Smestad substations …

    Published
    – Last updated

  • Starting the assessments for Hamang–Smestad

    Capacity in the main grid that supplies people in Oslo with electricity is about to run out. At the same time, consumption of electricity is increasing. Consequently, we need to upgrade the electri …

    Published
    – Last updated

Frequently asked questions

  • Why does the Hamang-Bærum-Smestad electrisity connection need to be upgraded?

    The main grid in Oslo and Akershus is old and the growth in electricity consumption is increasing.  Consequently, we need to upgrade the electricity connection between Hamang and Smestad substations to ensure that people will have a reliable supply of electricity in the future. Statnett is now considering how to modernise the electricity connection in the best possible manner.

     

    The current overhead line between Hamang and Smestad was built in 1952. It is approaching the end of its technical lifespan and needs upgrading. In addition, growth in electricity consumption in Oslo and Akershus could happen fairly soon, according to the consumption prognoses for the Greater Oslo Grid Plan.

     

    To handle the growth in consumption, we will begin with the measures that will give the fastest increase in capacity. On cold winter days, supply to Greater Oslo is from the west. Consequently, we need to reinforce one of the interconnectors from that direction.

     

    An upgraded electricity connection from Hamang to Smestad will be the quickest measure and is important for the power system. Statnett has therefore started assessing a new interconnector from Hamang to Smestad, which will replace the current 300-kV power overhead line.

     

    Bærum substation is located between Hamang and Smestad. This station also needs upgrading

  • What will Statnett assess?

    Statnett will now assess different alternative solutions for the Hamang-Smestad interconnector. It is important that we acquire sufficient knowledge to ensure a sound decision-making basis.

     

    As some sections of the current overhead line pass through established residential areas in Bærum and Oslo, we will consider both an overhead line and a subsurface cable. In addition, socio-economic assessments will be conducted, and we will map buildings, infrastructure, roads and the environment. 

  • Will Statnett apply for a licence for both the overhead power line and cable solution?

    It is too early to say. This is what we will find out through our current assessment work. As sections of the current overhead line pass through established residential areas in Bærum and Oslo, we will consider both an overhead line and a subsurface cable.  In addition, economic assessments will be conducted, and we will map buildings, infrastructure, roads and the environment. We will decide which solution to apply for after we have considered all the knowledge we have acquired through our assessment work. 

  • When will you submit the licence application?

    Statnett will apply for a licence from the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE) after the assessment has been concluded, probably first half of 2019. During the licensing process, the NVE will submit the application for consultation, and all affected parties will have an opportunity to give their comments.  Licences for the energy sector are considered in accordance with the Norwegian Energy Act. 

  • How can people provide input?

    Statnett will apply for a licence from the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE) for a new 420 kV interconnector between Hamang-Bærum-Smestad after the assessments have been concluded. As part of the NVE's licensing process, a consultation will take place, where all affected parties will have an opportunity to provide comments. The licence will be considered pursuant to the Norwegian Energy Act.

Contact