The electricity capacity in East Finnmark varies between surplus for large parts of the year and periods of deficit. In deficit situations, the region must get electricity from surrounding areas. Statnett has stated that with current consumption and the expected increase, the power lines into the area do not have enough capacity to supply further growth during periods of energy and power deficit.
Statnett says they are working to increase capacity on the power grid, including by building a new 420 kV power line from Skaidi to Lebesby. The company will also install a control unit on the power connection to Finland. Both these measures can increase capacity by up to 100 MW according to Statnett, and with one of the measures in place, the current limit can be raised.
East Finnmark is a region struggling with population decline. According to NRK Troms og Finnmark, plans to put all new power-intensive activity over 5 MW on hold in large parts of Northern Norway will have dramatic consequences for the region. Nordland has significant power resources, but for years, power has been sent out of the region without local value creation. The exact number or types of projects that Barents Nett must reject due to the new limit remains unspecified.