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. In this way we can increase the capacity of each line, without using new routes. Statnett views the voltage upgrade as a technically sound and environmentally friendly solution that will provide a renewed grid, increased capacity and reduced losses, with very little impact on the landscape. The alternative to the voltage upgrade is to build several new power lines along new routes.
Part of this development is the voltage upgrade of the current line on the section between the Kristiansand substation in Vennesla and Feda substation in Kvinesdal Municipality.