What HydroSec Is
HydroSec is a data aggregation platform that consolidates information from official Norwegian registries and APIs into a structured, searchable database. The platform indexes 1,855 hydropower plants, 1,558 transformer stations, and 17 industrial zones as of May 2026 [1].
The platform is designed for investors, operators, and analysts who need reliable, sourced information about hydropower infrastructure and data center suitability in Norway. Rather than relying on fragmented public sources, HydroSec centralizes authoritative data in one place, enabling faster due diligence and more informed decision-making.
Data Sources and Methodology
HydroSec aggregates data from six primary official sources [1]:
- NVE Powerplant API: Comprehensive registry of hydropower generation facilities
- HydAPI: Hydrological and operational data
- Statnett Nettanlegg: Grid infrastructure and transmission network data
- Kartverket Eiendomskart: Property and land registry information
- NVDB Vegnett: Road network and accessibility data
- NVE Konsesjonsdatabase: Concession and regulatory licensing records
All data is aggregated from official registries maintained by Norwegian government agencies and grid operators. The platform updates regularly from these primary sources to maintain currency [2].
The DC-Eignungs-Score: Six Evaluation Axes
HydroSec's DC-Eignungs-Score evaluates potential data center sites across six independent dimensions [3]:
1. Power: Available generation capacity and grid connection capability 2. Load: Facility cooling and thermal management capacity 3. Cooling: Natural cooling resources and environmental conditions 4. Access: Transportation, road, and logistics infrastructure 5. Grid: Transmission network stability and redundancy 6. Concession: Regulatory status, licensing, and legal constraints
Each axis incorporates knock-out criteria. If any axis triggers a knock-out condition, the site is disqualified from consideration regardless of performance on other dimensions [3]. This ensures that only genuinely viable sites advance through analysis.
Tiered Access: From Public to Qualified
HydroSec operates a three-tier access model [4]:
Tier 0 – Public Information Basic facility data is available without registration: location, installed capacity, generation type, and general grid connectivity. This tier serves researchers, journalists, and the general public.
Tier 1 – Registered Users Upon registration, users gain access to detailed facility data including historical generation, transformer specifications, concession documents, and environmental assessments [4].
Tier 2 – Qualified Professionals Full analytical access is available after qualification. This tier includes complete analysis capabilities [4].
Access restrictions at Tier 2 reflect the sensitivity of detailed infrastructure data in Norway's energy system.
How to Use HydroSec Data Effectively
Start with the Map The interactive Karte provides geographic context. Filter by region, capacity, or grid connection type to identify candidate sites quickly.
Refine with the Database Use Zur Datenbank to search by specific criteria: power availability, cooling potential, concession status, or access infrastructure. Export results for further analysis.
Register for Details Registrieren to unlock Tier 1 data. Historical generation patterns, transformer capacity, and concession timelines are essential for investment analysis.
Understand the Score Review the DC-Eignungs-Score for each site. A site with strong power and cooling scores but a concession knock-out is not viable, regardless of other factors. The score is designed to eliminate unsuitable sites early.
Verify Against Sources Every data point in HydroSec traces to one of six official sources. When presenting findings to stakeholders, you can cite the underlying registry or API.
Data Currency and Updates
HydroSec data is refreshed regularly from primary sources [2]. The platform maintains version history, allowing users to track changes over time. As of May 2026, the indexed dataset reflects the most recent official registrations [1].
Language Support
The platform is currently available in German (primary) and English. Norwegian language support is in development [5].
Risks and Limitations
Data Lag: While HydroSec updates regularly from official sources, there may be a lag between regulatory changes and platform updates. Always verify critical details directly with NVE or relevant authorities before making investment decisions.
Scope Limitations: HydroSec indexes hydropower plants, transformer stations, and industrial zones. It does not cover all energy infrastructure or provide real-time operational data. For operational monitoring, consult Statnett's real-time systems directly.
Regulatory Changes: Norwegian energy policy, grid regulations, and concession requirements evolve. Data in HydroSec reflects the regulatory environment at the time of indexing. Conduct independent legal and regulatory due diligence for any investment decision.
Knock-Out Criteria Interpretation: The DC-Eignungs-Score applies standardized knock-out criteria. Site-specific circumstances, local negotiations, or regulatory exemptions may alter viability in ways the score does not capture. Use the score as a screening tool, not a final investment decision.
Third-Party Data Dependency: HydroSec's accuracy depends on the quality and timeliness of data from NVE, Statnett, Kartverket, and other sources. Errors or omissions in those registries will be reflected in HydroSec.
No Guarantee of Completeness: While HydroSec indexes major facilities, smaller or recently registered plants may not yet be included. Verify completeness for your specific analysis region.
This platform is a research and due-diligence tool. It does not constitute investment advice, legal advice, or regulatory guidance. Consult qualified advisors before making investment or operational decisions.