ABB has been selected by Statkraft AS to modernize the Vikfalli hydropower complex in Vik municipality on Norway’s west coast. The complex comprises three hydropower plants — Målset, Refsdal and Hove — with a combined generation capacity of 184 MW and annual electricity production of about 830 GWh, enough to supply approximately 53,000 Norwegian homes. The order, booked in the second quarter of 2026, covers a comprehensive upgrade of the plants’ control, protection, excitation and electrical systems. Financial terms were not disclosed.
The modernization will extend the operating life of critical hydropower assets while improving their efficiency, reliability and ability to meet changing grid requirements. The project includes ABB Ability System 800xA distributed control and monitoring technology, which will be integrated with existing third-party turbine systems to provide a common operating environment across the three facilities.
ABB will also supply UNITROL 8000 excitation systems for all five generating units. The scope includes advanced cybersecurity solutions, low- and medium-voltage electrical systems, vibration monitoring and protection equipment, digital solutions, as well as cable supply and installation.
The upgraded excitation and protection systems are designed to support compliance with evolving grid codes and strengthen grid stability. This is increasingly important as power systems accommodate larger volumes of variable renewable energy.
“The upgrade of Vikfalli is an important step in strengthening Norway’s renewable energy infrastructure and we worked closely with ABB from the earliest stage to ensure the solution was optimized,” said Inge Hass, Power Plant Manager of group Sogn, Statkraft.
The Vikfalli complex consists of the 24 MW Målset plant, the 92 MW Refsdal plant and the 68 MW Hove plant. Site activities at Målset are expected to begin in 2028, followed by work at Refsdal and Hove in 2029. ABB and Statkraft worked together from the early development stage to define and optimize the technical solution before the contract was finalized. This approach helped establish the requirements for a long-term modernization programme while addressing the operational needs of the existing facilities.
“Hydropower is an important part of an expanding energy system, helping to grow renewable capacity and deliver stable baseload power to the grid,” said Per Erik Holsten, President of ABB’s Energy Industries division. “The priority now is ensuring that existing assets such as Vikfalli are equipped to fulfill that role for future needs with modern control and digital solutions.” Norway relies heavily on hydropower for electricity generation, making modernization of existing plants important to maintaining a stable and low-carbon power system. The Vikfalli upgrade will help Statkraft prepare its assets for future operating and grid requirements.
ABB is a global technology leader in electrification and automation, helping industries improve efficiency, productivity and sustainability while supporting the transition towards a more resource-efficient future.
By combining its deep engineering expertise with advanced digital technologies, ABB enables customers across industries to optimise operations, enhance performance and achieve their sustainability goals. The company’s approach, known as “Engineered to Outrun,” reflects its focus on helping businesses become more efficient, productive and resilient while delivering long-term value.
With a history spanning more than 140 years, ABB has built a strong global presence supported by approximately 110,000 employees worldwide. The company serves customers across a broad range of industries through its electrification and automation technologies and solutions. ABB’s shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ABBN) and Nasdaq Stockholm (ABB).