Overview
Avestaforsen is a 24 MW hydroelectric power plant in Sweden, operated by Fortum. It contributes to Sweden's renewable energy grid with reliable hydropower generation.
Avestaforsen is a hydroelectric power plant located in Sweden, operated by Fortum, a leading energy company. With a capacity of 24 MW, it is a small-scale facility within the Swedish hydropower sector, which is dominated by larger plants along the major rivers. The plant plays a role in the local and regional electricity supply, leveraging Sweden's abundant water resources. Hydroelectric plants like Avestaforsen operate under Sweden's stringent environmental regulations, which align with EU directives on renewable energy and water management. The facility uses run-of-river or reservoir-based technology typical of Swedish hydropower, with low emissions and high efficiency. Sweden's grid benefits from a mix of hydro, nuclear, and wind power, with hydropower providing flexibility and storage. Avestaforsen's environmental impact is minimal compared to fossil fuel plants, as hydropower produces no direct CO2, SOx, or NOx emissions. However, it may affect local aquatic ecosystems and water flow regimes. The plant supports Sweden's goal of 100% renewable electricity and contributes to grid stability, serving communities in the region with clean energy.
Environmental context
Hydropower plants like Avestaforsen have a low carbon footprint but can alter river ecosystems and fish migration. In Sweden, strict water management regulations minimize ecological disruption. The plant's location in a sparsely populated area reduces human exposure to any operational impacts, while its small capacity limits the scale of environmental changes.
Frequently asked questions
Avestaforsen is located in Sweden, with coordinates approximately 60.1454 N, 16.1679 E. It is situated in the Dalarna region, near the Dal River.
Avestaforsen has a capacity of 24 megawatts (MW), making it a small-scale hydroelectric facility within Sweden's hydropower network.
Avestaforsen is owned and operated by Fortum, a Finnish state-owned energy company with a strong presence in Nordic hydropower.
Hydroelectric plants in Sweden must comply with the EU Water Framework Directive and national environmental laws, including requirements for fish passages, minimum flow, and habitat protection. Permits are issued by the Land and Environment Court.
Avestaforsen adds to Sweden's renewable energy capacity, which is dominated by hydropower (about 40% of electricity). It provides clean, flexible power that supports grid stability and the country's transition to fossil-free energy.