What does a green ammonia plant mean for Sauda?
The establishment of Iverson’s plant in Sauda is about more than producing green ammonia to decarbonize shipping. The project will create new jobs, strengthen local businesses, improve infrastructure, and give the municipality a strong green identity. Building on Sauda’s rich industrial heritage, we aim to lay the foundation for a sustainable future — where renewable energy is transformed into local value through increased business activity, stronger competence, and a vibrant community.
Jobs
Iverson will be one of the largest industrial developments in Sauda in decades. During construction, more than 300 workers will be involved, in addition to subcontractors working on new infrastructure in Sønnhåvn and the development of the Birkeland industrial area. Existing companies that must relocate will receive new, modern facilities tailored to their needs. Once operational, the plant will employ 50–60 people in operations, maintenance, and administration. Experience from similar projects shows that these jobs can create four to five times as many indirect jobs in services, retail, and supplier industries.
Strengthening local business
A large industrial project brings increased activity across the community. Grocery stores, restaurants, hotels, transport companies, and the construction sector will all experience higher demand. The plant will also require a broad range of expertise — from welders, electricians, and plumbers to process operators, engineers, and specialists in chemistry, automation, HSE, and logistics. This opens opportunities for both new businesses and growth among existing ones.
New establishments in Sauda
Experience from other industrial regions shows that major green projects often act as magnets for new activity. Iverson will produce by-products such as oxygen and heat — valuable resources that can form the basis for new companies in Sauda. Over time, this could develop into an industrial cluster where businesses collaborate, share knowledge, and build strong value chains, creating a more diverse and resilient local economy with green industry at its core.
Skills and education
Iverson aims to be an active partner for local educational institutions. Together with Sauda Upper Secondary School, Fagskolen Rogaland, and other institutions, we plan to establish apprenticeships, internships, and educational collaborations. This will provide young people in Sauda with the opportunity to pursue education and careers locally, while helping to secure skilled workers for the growing green industry.
Infrastructure and development
The project will also modernise local infrastructure. Iverson will finance the construction of a new pedestrian and bicycle path and build new facilities for relocated businesses. The plant will form part of the new Birkeland Industrial Park — an emerging hub for future business activity in Sauda. The goal is to create an attractive environment for both existing companies and new entrants.
Emission reductions
Green ammonia is a zero-emission alternative to fossil fuels in the maritime sector, which today accounts for about 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions (IMO, 2025). Production in Sauda alone could reduce emissions by nearly 3 million tonnes of CO₂ in its first ten years of operation. This makes the project one of the most significant climate contributions in the region, positioning Sauda as a key player in the green transition — both nationally and globally.
A green identity
With the establishment of a large-scale green ammonia plant, Sauda is taking a clear step into the future of the green industry. The municipality is positioning itself as a frontrunner in renewable energy and sustainable industrial development. This initiative will strengthen local pride, attract new residents, and put Sauda on the map — both nationally and internationally — as an industrial town where renewable energy, future-oriented jobs, and tangible climate action come together.