New Manager Appointed at Guleslettene Wind Farm

Eviny, the Norwegian renewable energy company, has officially moved to take over the daily operations of the Guleslettene wind farm in Bremanger and Kinn municipalities. This transition follows the expiration of a management agreement with Zephyr AS, the firm that oversaw the park’s construction and initial operation. The shift marks a strategic move from purely financial ownership—previously held by the global investment giant BlackRock—to a domestic, industrial-led operational model.

Transitioning from Financial to Industrial Ownership

In 2024, Eviny (formerly BKK) acquired both the Guleslettene and Tellenes wind farms from BlackRock in a deal valued at approximately six billion Norwegian kroner. While the ownership transfer occurred earlier, the transition of operational control represents a fundamental change in philosophy. According to Eviny, the company intends to apply an industrial approach to the park’s management, contrasting with the financial orientation of its predecessor.

To ensure continuity, Eviny has appointed André Hatleset as the new power plant manager. Hatleset, who previously worked for Zephyr, brings firsthand knowledge of the Guleslettene site’s infrastructure and technical requirements. Trine Trøen, who manages the Tellenes wind farm, will continue in her role while overseeing the integrated management of the Guleslettene site.

Local Impact and Environmental Oversight

The wind farm serves as a significant economic contributor to the region. It generates approximately 19 million kroner in annual tax revenue and production fees for Bremanger, with an additional 10 million kroner allocated to Kinn. The project was designed with public access in mind, featuring 2.3 kilometers of illuminated trails, a public ski cabin, and a fishing pier.

Environmental monitoring remains a priority for the facility. Research conducted in 2023 regarding local bird life confirmed that while the area experiences high volumes of migratory birds, the mortality rate is not considered significant. Data for 2021 and 2022 estimated that roughly 400 birds were killed per year, averaging 0.77 fatalities per turbine each month.

Future Expansion and Power Consumption Debates

Eviny is currently evaluating a potential “densification” of the Guleslettene park. The proposal seeks to add four additional turbines to the existing 47, which would increase total production from 700 GWh to 875 GWh—enough to supply many households. If approved, this expansion would require an investment of nearly one billion kroner.

The project is currently under regulatory review, with the public consultation period concluding on July 10. However, the proposal faces scrutiny; the County Governor (Statsforvaltaren) in Vestland has expressed concerns regarding the impact of further expansion on avian populations, leading to calls for new radar-based studies.

The electricity produced at Guleslettene is currently tied to a 15-year contract with Alcoa, the global aluminum and bauxite producer. This power supports aluminum manufacturing at facilities in Lista and Mosjøen. As the industry debates the prioritization of “green energy” for different sectors—ranging from cryptocurrency mining to heavy industrial production—Eviny maintains that the company is actively participating in these broader national discussions regarding the future of Norwegian power consumption.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who owns the Guleslettene wind farm?
The wind farm is owned by the Norwegian company Eviny, which purchased the facility from the international investment firm BlackRock in 2024.

How much power does the park produce?
The park produces approximately 700 GWh per year, which is equivalent to the consumption of over 40,000 households.

Is the wind farm planning to expand?
Yes, there is a current proposal to increase the number of turbines from 47 to 51, which would boost annual production to 875 GWh.

What is the impact on local bird life?
Environmental reports from 2023 indicate that although many migratory birds pass through the area, the mortality rate is not considered significant, with an average of 0.77 birds killed per turbine per month.

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