Episode description

These are uncertain times with major economic fluctuations, but here in Southern Norway we are investing heavily - especially in the Arendal region.

On Tuesday, March 21, we broadcast live from our office in Kanalgården in Arendal, providing professional and market updates.

The broadcast was hosted by Unni Mesel and Morten Venemyr from Næringsmegleren.

The first guest in the studio was Kåre Andersen, Business Manager in Arendal Municipality.

Kåre updated us on the green industrial adventure from the municipality's point of view: what positive ripple effects and challenges are seen in the wake of the gigafactory, and what should investors, developers and businesses in general in Agder be prepared for? Representatives from the municipality have visited Skelefteå to learn from them - they are 3 years ahead of Arendal with a similar venture and have gained a lot of experience.

Next up was Rune Hvass, harbor master in Arendal.

Did you know that the Port of Arendal was the first initiator of a battery factory in the Arendal region, back in 2019? It did not become Elon Musk's factory as first stated, but the Ministry of Trade and Industry then realized what Agder could offer. It became a battery factory - and the Port of Arendal is an incredibly important tool for success in the region. Over the next four years, NOK 350 million will be invested to enable the port to handle the volumes of freight expected in the coming years. The goal is emission-free transportation to and from the battery factory.

There are also major plans for an ammonia factory, expansion of the container port and, not least, 1.5 km of deep-water quays and a so-called ro-ro facility. Welcome to an exciting professional refill - this time as a useful update on the Arendal region! Feel free to participate with questions during the broadcast.