“In the Kölvallen project, we manage the entire value chain, from planning through to operations. This approach has allowed us to bring in the right people through a gradual handover as the project progress into new stages. Such a method ensures security, quality, and control. Kölvallen serves as a prime example of building for the future and advancing more sustainable energy solutions in Sweden", says Hampus Viklund, Construction Project Manager, Arise.

The Kölvallen project is being constructed between Los and Kårböle, in the municipality of Ljusdal, Hälsingland. It comprises 42 turbines, each standing 220 meters tall. Construction began in the summer of 2022, and is targeted to be fully operational by summer 2025. Kölvallen’s estimated capacity is 277.2 MW, with an annual production forecast of 930 GWh—enough to cover the yearly electricity consumption of approximately 77,500 households.

Projects of this scale require careful consideration of various factors, including environmental restrictions, biotopes, and cultural heritage sites. The geographical location is critical for leveraging natural advantages such as wind conditions and access to the power grid. The site also had to meet requirements for distance from residential areas, airports, and military installations.

Viklund highlights the unique challenges encountered in this project: “In this project, we’ve had to account for the nesting periods of woodland birds in the area. Being in a remote forested location also meant upgrading and reinforcing roads to accommodate heavy transport loads. Additionally, we are operating in a challenging global environment for suppliers, with fluctuating material costs and component availability. These are consequences of both Covid-19 and war, complicating timely deliveries".

Local and Environmental Benefits
Beyond the environmental gains, Kölvallen has provided significant employment opportunities in an area grappling with depopulation. “We’ve seen how this project has benefited the local community by generating jobs during both construction and operations, as well as meeting the demands created by an increased influx of workers to the village", Viklund notes.

Throughout the project, Arise has collaborated with local community organizations, committing to share a percentage of the wind farms profits during operations to fund community initiatives. In a previous project, Skaftåsen, a similar profit-sharing model helped fund the hiring of additional preschool teachers in the area. This aligns with Arise's overarching goal to contribute to a sustainable future.

Owner: Funds managed by Foresight Group LLP (91%) and Arise AB (9%).

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