Power systems support for Glencore Nikkelverk, Norway
Strengthening electrical reliability for critical mineral processing
As mining and mineral processing operations become more electrified, reliable power systems are essential for safe operations and future growth. For Glencore Nikkelverk in Kristiansand, Norway, AFRY delivered relay coordination studies, arc flash analysis, and technical support during relay testing to help strengthen the reliability of critical electrical infrastructure.
Facts
Project
Electrical power systems support for nickel refinery operations
Client:
Glencore Nikkelverk
Location:
Kristiansand, Norway
Industry:
Mining & Metals
Scope of AFRY’s role:
Relay coordination studies, arc flash analyses, and technical support during relay testing
Reliable power for critical mineral processing
Glencore Nikkelverk in Kristiansand, Norway, is a leading nickel refinery producing high-purity nickel, copper, and cobalt for customers worldwide. With complex, energy-intensive processes, reliable electrical infrastructure is critical to maintaining safe, continuous, and efficient operations, while limiting the impact of electrical faults and reducing unplanned downtime.
AFRY provided specialist power systems engineering to assess and strengthen the refinery’s electrical system, helping keep critical assets operating safely and reliably.
The scope covered:
- Relay coordination studies: Reviewing and developing protection settings to ensure faults are cleared quickly and selectively, limiting disturbances and minimizing downtime
- Arc-flash analysis: Assessing arc-flash risks, incident energy, and protection performance to improve electrical safety and safe working conditions
- Support during relay testing: Providing technical guidance during testing to verify that protection settings perform as intended.
Fast, selective fault clearance is fundamental to reliable industrial power, helping maintain continuity for critical processes and safer conditions for people.
Johannes Clausen, Director & Head of Transmission & Distribution, Denmark
Bridging grid and industrial power systems
What sets AFRY apart is our ability to connect utility grid networks and complex industrial power systems.
AFRY supports grid companies in developing and operating electrical networks while helping mining and mineral processing clients design, optimize and maintain reliable electrical infrastructure.
For industrial sites with heavy, sensitive loads and high uptime requirements, this means one partner from grid connection to the process floor, and a consistent engineering approach across the full electrical value chain.
Our offering
This project draws on AFRY's broad expertise in power systems, including power plants, transmission and distribution networks, substations, and grid infrastructure. Key capabilities include:
- Grid connection studies and design
- Electrical system studies, including fault level analysis, load flow, and power quality
- High- and medium-voltage system design
- Substation engineering
- Procurement support
- Construction supervision and site management
- Protection and control systems engineering
- Relay coordination and settings development
- Testing and commissioning
By combining utility expertise with deep industrial experience, AFRY helps mining and mineral processing operators develop the electrical infrastructure needed to support safe operations, future growth, and increasing electrification.
