Statnett is in the process of building its next-generation main grid. An important step towards the next generation main grid is to increase the grid voltage from 300 to 420 kilovolts (voltage upgrade). This will be done by converting existing lines and 300 kilovolt substations, and by replacing some old and weak lines with new ones.
The aim of the project is to increase the grid voltage from 300 to 420 kV between Solhom power station in Kvinesdal Municipality and the Arendal substation in Froland Municipality. There is also a need for some minor changes in the Arendal substation. In addition, the shift to more efficient power transmission at 420 kV, and thus increased transmission capacity on existing routes, will help to improve the operating situation in the main grid during maintenance and long-term rebuilding of other lines in Southwestern Norway.