Norway – The plans for the future operation of Snøhvit and Hammerfest LNG have been authorized by the Norwegian government, subject to a few restrictions. The certification mandates onshore compression starting in 2028 and plant electrification starting in 2030.
The commencement of electrification has been delayed by two years by the authorities, from 2028 to 2030, in comparison to the application made by the partnership. Throughout this time, the plant will continue to run on gas turbines. The maintenance of the gas turbines for backup power from 2030 to 2033 is now approved. By 2028 at the latest, the necessity of this will be determined.
The electrification of Hammerfest LNG will use grid electricity to take the place of the current gas turbines. This lowers the plant’s annual CO2 emissions by about 850,000 tonnes. This is the largest individual emission reduction choice that has been taken with the intention of decarbonizing Norway’s oil and gas production. The undertaking makes a significant contribution to the energy transition. The Snøhvit partners are funding the Snøhvit Future project with NOK 13.2 billion (2022).
Snøhvit Future
Snøhvit Future’s permission guarantees that operations on Melkøya will continue. The facility currently employs 150 contractors and apprentices in addition to 350 permanent workers, and Bod Science Park estimates that the business has provided about 900 person-years of employment in Northern Norway.
The Snøhvit Future project results in a greater demand for electricity and a more robust system. Along with Statnett’s application for a power cable (420 kV) between Skaidi and Hyggevatn, Equinor’s application for a power cable (132 kV) between Hyggevatn and Melkøya has also been accepted by the government today.
Equinor Energy AS (36.79%), Petoro AS (30.00%), TotalEnergies EP Norge AS (1.,40%), Neptune Energy Norge AS (12.00%), and Wintershall Dea Norge AS (2.81%) are the holders of Snhvit licenses.
