Enersense to expand the world’s most climate-friendly zinc plant in Norway

Near Bergen, in Odda, Norway, amidst magnificent fjords, is one of Europe’s largest zinc factories. Zinc is an important raw material for the construction and chemical industries. Zink is used for example to protect steel from corrosion, which increases the lifetime of steel.

In the past, the downside of zinc production has been high carbon dioxide emissions and heavy metals. However, Boliden’s zinc plant has invested in environmentally friendly technologies and will be the world’s most climate-friendly zinc plant when completed.

As the plant expands, carbon dioxide emissions will be further reduced. Operations will be automated and digitalised. The know-how for this comes from Finland.

Last year, Enersense installed equipment and steel structures requiring meticulous expertise at the factory. Currently, Enersense is installing piping in the factory. These are not small projects, as more than 700 tons of steel structures alone have already been delivered to Norway. More than 800 pieces of equipment or other mechanical assemblies have been installed.

Working at the mercy of nature

According to Project Director Sami Pesonen, manufacturing steel structures and pipelines is demanding work.

“Enersense is a specialist in demanding pipe work and we have skilled and trained staff for this. At best, we have had more than 100 employees on site”, says Pesonen.

What is it like to work in one of the most beautiful places in Europe?

“Most of the work was done under the sky, especially in the beginning. Norway’s nature is beautiful but brutal. Heavy rains made the work difficult, and all the cargo had to be transported by ferry along the fjord. It’s only 120 kilometers from Odda to Bergen, but because of the poor transport links, it takes three hours by car. In addition, in winter, there is a constant risk of avalanches and landslides on the mountain roads”, says Pesonen.

“On the other hand, could you find a less stressful environment? The scenery is stunning, the fjords and high mountains are soothing. And knowing that our work makes a difference to the climate and the cleanliness of the Norwegian fjords makes it meaningful for everyone”, Pesonen adds.

The expansion will double the production of zinc in Odda. The aim is to have production up and running by 2025. Boliden Odda is 100% supplied by local Hydro power energy.