Norway, Aure: Land-based salmon producer Salfjord has secured a firm schedule for grid access to its planned facility at Tjeldbergodden in Aure, following approval from the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE) for the construction of a new transformer station. Grid operator Mellom has confirmed it will complete the station and supply power to the project, Salfjord I – Tjeldbergodden, from May 2028. Power availability has been a major bottleneck for the investment, which the company describes as one of Norway’s most significant industrial developments.
“This confirmation of when Salfjord can start production is a crucial milestone for the investment decision. It provides the predictability we and our investors need to carry out the capitalisation of the project,” said Jan Harald Hauvik, chair of Salfjord.
Salfjord initially applied for grid connection in April 2018. Statnett, the national transmission system operator, awarded grid capacity in March 2025, and full capacity of 55 MW is expected to be available once transmission upgrades are completed in 2028. NVE approved Mellom’s transformer station concession in October 2025, removing the final regulatory hurdle.
“This is the last tick in a long line of milestones,” said CEO Hans Ramsvik. He emphasised that reliable power enables the construction of the Oceanfront closed fish farming facility, designed to ensure strong fish welfare and minimal environmental impact.
COO Robin Fladseth added that securing power allows Salfjord to advance plans for sustainable, technology-driven food production, while Aure mayor Henning Torset said the project represents “very important” economic development for the municipality and wider region.
Salfjord aims to begin salmon production in 2028, delivering the equivalent of 180 million salmon meals annually, with a second phase planned from 2032 to double output.
Source: Salmon Business
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