Energy versus nature in the Norwegian mountains. Is electricity more important than reindeer and tourists?

Lyse Kraft plans to modernize existing energy installations in the Røldal-Suldal region and build three new pumped-storage power plants. The project includes a total of five facilities in the municipalities of Suldal and Ullensvang. One of the main concerns is the impact of winter water pumping on the ice cover of Lake Holmavatn. In winter, the frozen surface is used both by ski tourists and wild reindeer.

The Norwegian Trekking Association expresses preliminary support for the modernization of existing power plants. The organization emphasizes that developing infrastructure in already developed areas is better than investing in untouched natural areas. At the same time, it points out possible consequences for winter tourism. Pumping water during freezing periods may weaken the ice on Lake Holmavatn. This, in turn, may limit the availability of routes for tourists and animals.

The organization's Secretary General, Inger Lise Blyverket, told NRK that the interests of tourism and reindeer protection often overlap. In her opinion, the needs of tourism and outdoor recreation are too rarely taken into account in investment processes. The organization also recalls experiences from the 1960s, when the first hydropower plants were built in the region. According to the association, these were investments that did not sufficiently consider the environment and tourism. Therefore, it calls for a halt to water pumping in winter to ensure a stable ice cover.

Lyse Kraft announces an analysis of solutions to limit the environmental impact of the investment. The company is considering introducing restrictions on water pumping during the ice formation period at the beginning of winter. Limits on pump operating time after the lake freezes are also being analyzed. Director Bjørn Honningsvåg notes that such measures may increase the project's costs. However, the company emphasizes that it wants to find a solution that combines energy production with reindeer protection.

The investment applications are currently being considered by the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate. At the same time, the Ministry of Climate and Environment is preparing new plans for the protection of the reindeer population. Several politicians from southern Norway have expressed opposition to the expansion of the power plants. They point to potential impacts on the environment and winter tourism. A decision on the projects may be made later this year.

Any appeals against the decision of the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate may be submitted to the Minister of Energy, Terje Aasland. The politician emphasizes that Norway needs greater energy production, but at the same time must protect the wild reindeer population. The government announces a comprehensive approach to energy plans and conservation efforts.