Hydro invests NOK 80 million in innovative digital technology at Ardal to strengthen low-carbon aluminium production

The HAL5000 pot control system is designed by the technology community at Ardal, providing more efficient control of aluminium production. As a result of upgrading electrolysis cells, the technology contributes to increased production, reduced electricity consumption, and lower CO2 emissions. Approximately six million Norwegian kroner will be saved every year as a result.

Wenche Eldegard, the Plant Manager at Hydro Årdal, said, "It is inspiring that Hydro Årdal has the ability to make the production of a critically important material even better. Through this investment, we reduce electricity use equivalent to the consumption of over 400 households in Norway and CO2 emissions by 1,500 tonnes. The technology can be used at additional plants and significantly improves efficiency."

 The pot control system will be installed in one of two electrolysis lines in Årdal, and work commences in 2022. The first cells are available along with the new control system during 2023 and are a pilot for other Hydro aluminium facilities.

Geir Sandnes, the Head of digital production support in Hydro Aluminum Metal, said, "HAL5000 is the fifth generation control system developed in a world-class technology environment in Årdal. Decades of experience, mathematical models and data analyses are built into a system that provides more efficient production control. The update includes several new technology elements and increases data capture, which is currently limited. This is digitization and Industry 4.0 in practice."

Hydro has invested notably in Norwegian aluminium facilities in recent times. Since 2017, Hydro has injected over NOK 700 million in Årdal, in addition to the new pot control system.

Wenche Eldegard added, "Despite challenging times in Europe and weakener aluminium markets, we have long-term ambitions in Norway and the aluminium plants, including several major modernizations. The investment in Årdal demonstrates our improvements and prepares us for the next decades in Årdal, including the latest technology and digitalization in the aluminium industry."