Nippon Gases Norway, part of the European subsidiary of Japan’s Nippon Sanso Holdings Corporation (NSHD), has announced a NOK 400 million (USD 40 million) investment in a new air gas factory at the Viganeset industrial estate in Hjelmeland municipality. This marks an important step in securing future supplies of industrial, medical and food gases such as liquid oxygen and nitrogen for the aquaculture industry and other industries in the region.

Frank Rutten, Vice President of Nippon Gases Region North, mentioned: “This investment is the result of targeted and long-term work, and we are proud to finally be able to formalize the agreement. We are now entering a new phase where we will realize our visions and aim to start up the factory during the summer of 2027.”

The new facility, Nippon Gases' fourth air gas factory in Norway, will contribute to increasing security of supply for oxygen-dependent industries, such as land-based fish farming. Lars Borgli, CEO of Nippon Gases Norway, added: “With a central location in a growing area, we can deliver industrial gas to our customers faster and with less environmental impact. This project is a milestone for both us and the local environment.” The choice of Viganeset reflects strong cooperation with both Hjelmeland Municipality and the local aquaculture company Årdal Aqua.

Nippon Gases has a long industrial history in Norway, dating back to the early 1900s. The investment in Hjelmeland is the largest that the Japanese owner company, Nippon Sanso Holdings, has approved in Norway to date. In addition, Borgli said: “This is an important investment for both Nippon Gases and the region. We estimate that about half of the investment will go to local contractors during the project phase, and the factory will contribute to new jobs and growth in the local community.”

The factory is expected to be completed and operational in 2027, and will play a key role in supporting the green shift and ensuring stable deliveries to both aquaculture and other industries.