A Valuable Collaboration

Usma and Thomas Angell

The Usma hydropower plant, located in the Selbu municipality, was completed in 2013 through a collaboration between the Thomas Angell Foundation, six other landowners, and Trønderenergi. The foundation owns approximately 69 percent of the water rights. The historic pipeline to the power plant, spanning 5.4 kilometers, is Norway's longest.

Thomas Angell Foundation and Cloudberry

The decision to sell the Usma power plant to Cloudberry was collectively made by 13 landowners and Trønderenergi. Trust and a focus on local engagement by Cloudberry were crucial for the sale and the agreement.

Svendsen describes the process as orderly and successful. Local engagement and good relationships were emphasized, and the encounter with Cloudberry instilled trust in the landowners. Mutual respect and the feeling of being heard were crucial for reaching the agreement. Price was also a determining factor in the decision, she explains.

Svendsen emphasizes that the agreement was well-received by all landowners. "The credit for reaching an agreement goes to Cloudberry," she says. The foundation also had a good relationship with Trønderenergi throughout the sales process.

"Both Cloudberry and the foundation share many common values. Addressing social and environmental concerns is important and crucial in all projects for both parties," Svendsen adds.

Sustainable Engagement and Management

The foundation has always been concerned with sustainability and people. Therefore, in 2023, the first action plan and reporting within ESG were developed. The foundation's goal is to support social development. Sustainable forest management and reducing environmental footprint are also central. The foundation focuses on preserving biodiversity and supporting the protection of nature where necessary.

"In the development of the Usma hydroelectric power plant, we had to reach an agreement with reindeer herders, and it was somewhat challenging to finalize the agreement. We were willing and believed it was absolutely necessary to consider reindeer and calving. Our wish is to develop the hydroelectric power plant in the most respectful manner, for both people and animals," Svendsen explains.

Long-Term Perspective

Finally, Svendsen emphasizes that the Thomas Angell Foundation's long-term perspective is anchored in the testament meant to be of benefit for as long as time exists. With a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, the foundation manages Thomas Angell's legacy for future generations.