Energy

SØRAL's electricity consumption corresponds to that of 80000 homes.
Approximately 80% of the electricity consumption is covered through long-term contracts with Statskraft. Rest of the 20% is purchased at market price. Contracts with Statskraft will be terminating in the course of the next 10 years, the biggest one of them for 1050Gwh ended in Sept. 2006.

The increase in electricity consumption has been a direct result of the increase in the production, which has gone up by 58.5% from 1993 to 1999.

The per kilo consumption of aluminium produced by electrolysis has gone up and down in the 10 year period but shows a sharp decline in the 90s.That is due to a well-managed process and higher volume.

Secured supply of energy at a competitive price, which can match that in the international market, is essential for SØRAL's as well as the Norwegian aluminium industry's further success.

SØRAL is also working with recycling of energy. A large amount of lost energy can be transformed into low temperature heat which can be used for heating, fish farming etc. Such projects are being considered.

Energy savingThe conversion of the ventilation system in the electrolysis plants, reduction of temperature in the production and storage rooms at night, installation of energy-saving lighting and hot air from compressors for heating water, all has contributed to an energy saving equivalent to the energy consumption of around 1000 households. Measures resulting in further energy recovery are being planned.