Melkefoss at a Glance
Melkefoss is a [Kraftverk][1] (hydropower plant) located in [Sør-Varanger municipality][2], Finnmark county, Norway. The facility has been operational since 31 August 1978 [0] and is registered with the Norwegian Water Resources and Energy Directorate (NVE) under ID 267 [0]. It operates within the NO4 price zone [0], which covers northern Norway and influences electricity trading dynamics for the region.
The plant draws water from the Pasvikelva watershed [0], a significant hydrological system in the far north. Understanding the catchment characteristics is essential for evaluating seasonal production patterns and long-term resource availability.
Ownership & Operator
Melkefoss is owned and operated by [PASVIK KRAFT AS][3] [0], the primary concession holder. This entity manages the facility's day-to-day operations and holds the active concession status with NVE [0]. For detailed information about the operator's portfolio, regulatory history, and corporate structure, visit the [PASVIK KRAFT AS owner profile][3].
Hydrological Context
The plant's water supply originates from the [Pasvikelva watershed][4] [0], which defines the catchment area and seasonal hydrology. The Pasvikelva system is a critical resource for understanding production variability, particularly in regions with pronounced seasonal precipitation and snowmelt patterns. Detailed hydrological data—including runoff patterns, historical inflow statistics, and drought/flood scenarios—is available through the [Pasvikelva river profile][4] after account registration.
Regional Location & Infrastructure
Fylke (County): Finnmark [0] Kommune (Municipality): Sør-Varanger [0] Elspot Zone: NO4 [0] NVE Concession Status: Active [0]
Melkefoss is situated in Norway's northernmost region, characterized by unique climatic and hydrological conditions. The nearest Statnett transformer station is located approximately 2.32 km away [0], which is relevant for grid connection efficiency and transmission losses. The nearest industrial cluster (Finnfjord/Skaland) is approximately 460 km distant [0], reflecting the remote nature of this installation.
Data Center Suitability Assessment
HydroSec rates Melkefoss with a Grade A for data center infrastructure compatibility [0]. This assessment is qualitative and reflects the facility's potential to support computational workloads, with estimated maximum capacity around 4 MW [0]. The Grade A rating indicates favorable conditions for co-location or power-intensive applications, though detailed technical specifications and sub-scores are available only after login.
What You'll Access After Registration
HydroSec's registered users gain access to detailed operational and financial metrics:
- Installed capacity (MaksYtelse) and historical production data
- Gross head (BruttoFallhoyde) and efficiency parameters
- Average annual production (MidProd) and seasonal variability
- Hydrological time series for the Pasvikelva catchment
- Grid infrastructure details and transmission constraints
- Ownership history and regulatory filings with NVE
These data points are essential for institutional investors conducting due diligence on hydropower assets, portfolio analysis, and long-term resource planning.
Related Resources
Explore other [Kraftverk installations][1] in Norway, view the [complete hydropower map][5], or review the broader [Pasvikelva watershed context][4].
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Risks and Limitations
Hydrological Variability: Hydropower production depends on precipitation and snowmelt patterns, which are subject to seasonal and inter-annual fluctuations. Climate change may alter historical runoff patterns.
Regulatory Risk: Concession terms, environmental requirements, and grid connection rules are set by Norwegian authorities (NVE, Statnett) and may change. Current status is listed as active, but future modifications are possible.
Market Risk: Electricity prices in the NO4 zone are subject to Nordic and European market dynamics, including wholesale price volatility and transmission constraints.
Infrastructure Limitations: Remote location (460 km from nearest industrial hub) may constrain certain applications. Grid connection capacity is finite and subject to Statnett's operational priorities.
Data Completeness: Some technical parameters (installed capacity, head, production) are not publicly disclosed and require account registration. Historical data quality may vary by period.
No Guarantee of Returns: This page provides factual infrastructure data only. It does not constitute investment advice, tax guidance, or a guarantee of financial performance. Investors must conduct independent analysis and consult qualified advisors.