Vattenfall plans 720MW hydropower projects in Sweden

Swedish energy giant Vattenfall has announced plans to develop up to 720MW of new hydropower capacity in Sweden.

Pre studies are currently underway in preparation for the upcoming investment decision with building expected to begin in 2026.

Johan Dasht, head of Vattenfall’s Hydro Power Operations in the Nordics, said in a statement: “It is truly a pleasure to announce our plans to build new hydropower in Sweden. If these projects are in fact put in motion, it will mean a substantial increase in output when we need it the most."

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According to Dasht, this development is needed to meet the country's rising demand for clean electricity and meet net zero goals. Sweden's hydropower also provides much-needed flexibility and balancing capabilities, allowing for even more renewables to be added to the grid.

Four projects with a combined capacity of 720MW are planned.

• At the Harsprånget power station on the Lule älv river, the plan is to renew and reinstate a unit that is currently out of operation. The decision to invest is planned for 2024 and commercial operation in 2026 (110MW).
• At the Porjus power station on the Lule älv river in Norrbotten, there are plans to increase water flow and generation. The decision to invest is planned for 2026 and commercial operation before 2031 (80MW).
• A pilot study is underway to investigate converting the Juktan power station on the Storjuktan Lake, adjacent to the Umeälven River in Västerbotten, to a pumped storage plant with a potential of up to 380MW. The decision to invest is planned for 2027 and commercial operation would start in 2031. Juktan was once Sweden’s largest pumped storage plant and was operational 1979-1996.
• At the Messaure power station on the Lule älv River, there are plans for a fourth unit (150MW). The decision to invest is planned for 2028 and commercial operation in 2032.

Hydroelectric power can generate fossil-free electricity during times with less wind and store energy by filling the water reservoirs when other sources are generating energy.

“Vattenfall strives to continue developing hydropower to meet the increased demand. Its great capacity to store energy in dams and its capacity for control are enormous assets. In the pre studies, we will analyse the consequences on the environment, technology and the impact on local stakeholders. And, where appropriate, we will also consult with those affected,” added Dasht.

In Sweden, there is about 16,000MW of hydropower. Of this, Vattenfall operates about 8,500MW, annually producing 65TWh of electrical power.