Following a government decision, it is now planned that the environmental conditions of hydropower throughout Sweden will be reconsidered.
It should not only aim at a better aquatic environment but also streamline access to hydropower.
Hydropower plants have a major impact on fish life. Hear Olle Calles, fish researcher at Karlstad University, tell in the clip.
Long process
But despite the fact that many fish are acutely endangered, the work is expected to continue for about 20 years, starting in Värmland in 2023.
According to Mikael Hedenskog, water administrator at the county administrative board, a small part of the county has already started the preparatory work:
- During the collaboration process that is currently underway, we are primarily trying to make a description of the situation.
This means mapping out what problems exist and what measures would be appropriate, he says.
Reconsideration in court
It is the power plant owners themselves who apply for the reconsiderations in court.
- By 1 September 2023, dam and power plant owners in the first review group in the county must have submitted their application documents to the Land and Environment Court at Vänersborg District Court, says Mikael Hedenskog.
Trying to fix the problems
At Alsters Hydropower Plant in Karlstad, attempts have long been made to remedy the problems by, among other things, investing private money and allowing research projects on fish passages at the facility.
According to owner Ulf Leveyn, they have nevertheless chosen to apply for reconsideration in order to further improve the upstream and downstream passages.