Hommsåne kraftverk godkjent

NVE (Norges vassdrags- og energidirektorat) has approved Småkraft AS's application to construct the Hommsåne hydropower plant in Valle municipality, Aust-Agder. The plant will feature an installed capacity of 1.7 megawatts and is anticipated to generate approximately 4.6 gigawatt-hours per year, which is enough to supply electricity to around 230 households.

Utnytter 260m høydeforskjell

The construction involves the utilization of a 260-meter height difference and will alter the natural water flow along an approximately 1100 meter stretch of the river. Water will be channeled through buried pipes between two intakes and the power station. A valuable 'bekkekløft' natural type has been identified in this area, although no red-listed species associated with the river have been found.

Akkseptable miljøkonsekvenser

Though the development will result in some negative impacts on nature, landscape, and outdoor recreation values, NVE believes that with adequate minimum water flow throughout the year and careful planning and monitoring during construction, the environmental damage will be acceptable. NVE has assessed the benefits of the project against the public interest and has granted permission to Hommsåne hydropower plant with specific conditions.