The Nordic Investment Bank (NIB) has made a strategic move to support Norway’s clean energy transformation by signing a seven-year loan agreement with Varanger Kraft, a prominent Norwegian utility company. This partnership aims to facilitate the upgrade of Varanger Kraft’s hydrogen facility for commercial operations and the enhancement of the electricity distribution network in Norway’s Varanger region.
A significant portion of the NOK 50 million (EUR 4.3 million) loan from NIB will be directed towards co-financing Varanger Kraft’s Berlevåg hydrogen production facility. At the heart of this ambitious project lies a 2.5MW electrolyser, hydrogen compressors, and a storage tank. The objective is clear: to commence hydrogen production for regional use by late 2024. The potential beneficiaries of this green hydrogen output extend across multiple sectors, including maritime and terrestrial transport.
Despite the region’s limited grid capacity, it is home to Varanger Kraft’s Raggovidda wind power project, a wind farm renowned for its impressive efficiency, boasting a load factor of approximately 50%. The Berlevåg hydrogen facility will play a dual role by contributing to grid balancing and harnessing surplus wind energy, further solidifying the Varanger region’s reputation as a green energy leader.
The hydrogen project commands a total investment of NOK 45.3 million. Importantly, NIB’s contribution, covering 44% of the loan amount, aligns perfectly with the principles of NIB Environmental Bonds, emphasizing its commitment to sustainable financing.
In a parallel effort, Varanger Kraft is embarking on an essential electricity distribution infrastructure upgrade along the northern edge of Varangerfjorden. This substantial undertaking involves replacing 36 kilometers of aging power lines, with a focus on bolstering the security of power supply in the region. The allocated budget for this sub-project spanning from 2023 to 2026 stands at NOK 62.1 million.
Varanger Kraft, with its roots dating back to 1938, has evolved into a key player in northern Norway’s energy landscape. Specializing in renewable energy production from hydro and wind sources, the company extends its services to grid operators and power plants. Beyond energy production and distribution, Varanger Kraft manages power transmission networks and delivers telecom services. The company’s ownership structure includes several municipalities: Sør-Varanger, Vadsø, Deanu/Tana, Båtsfjord, Berlevåg, Vardø, and Unjarga/Nesseby.
NIB, an international financial institution owned by eight member countries, including Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, and Sweden, continues to play a pivotal role in financing both private and public projects within and beyond its member countries. The bank’s remarkable AAA/Aaa credit rating from leading agencies Standard & Poor’s and Moody’s underscores its commitment to sustainable investments.
In conclusion, the collaboration between NIB and Varanger Kraft represents a significant stride towards a greener, more sustainable energy future for Norway. As the world intensifies its focus on combating climate change, partnerships like this serve as beacons of hope, demonstrating the commitment to cleaner, more efficient energy solutions.
