E-CO Vannkraft AS is a Norwegian company that specializes in the development of renewable energy projects, particularly in the small hydro sector. The company is owned by the Norwegian state, through its Ministry of Trade, Industry and Fisheries, and operates as a subsidiary of E-CO Energi AS.

E-CO Vannkraft AS was established in 2007, with the aim of developing, operating and maintaining small hydro power plants in Norway. The company's focus on small hydro is driven by the fact that Norway has a large number of small rivers and streams that are suitable for hydropower generation, but which have not been fully utilized. Small hydro power plants typically have a capacity of less than 10 MW, and are often located in remote areas, where they can provide electricity to local communities.

One of the key advantages of small hydro power plants is that they are environmentally friendly, as they do not emit greenhouse gases or other pollutants. In addition, they have a relatively low impact on the local environment, as they do not require large dams or reservoirs. This makes them an attractive option for communities that are concerned about the environmental impact of energy generation.

E-CO Vannkraft AS currently operates 65 small hydro power plants in Norway, with a total installed capacity of 1,200 MW. The company's power plants are located in various parts of the country, including the western fjords, the central mountain range, and the eastern lowlands. The company's largest power plant is located in the Aurland municipality, and has a capacity of 240 MW.

In addition to operating existing power plants, E-CO Vannkraft AS is also actively involved in the development of new small hydro projects. The company has a number of projects in the pipeline, including the Sørfjord project in Hordaland, which will have a capacity of 30 MW, and the Rosten project in Oppland, which will have a capacity of 20 MW.

One of the challenges that E-CO Vannkraft AS faces in developing new small hydro projects is obtaining the necessary permits and approvals from regulatory authorities. The company works closely with local communities and environmental organizations to ensure that its projects are designed and operated in an environmentally responsible manner. This includes conducting environmental impact assessments and taking steps to mitigate any negative impacts on the local environment.

Another challenge that E-CO Vannkraft AS faces is the competition from other renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar. While small hydro power plants have a number of advantages over these other sources, such as their reliability and predictability, they can be more expensive to build and operate. The company is constantly looking for ways to reduce costs and improve efficiency, in order to remain competitive in the renewable energy market.

Despite these challenges, E-CO Vannkraft AS is optimistic about the future of small hydro power in Norway. The company believes that there is still significant untapped potential in the country's small rivers and streams, and that small hydro power will continue to play an important role in Norway's transition to a low-carbon economy.

In addition to its focus on small hydro, E-CO Vannkraft AS is also involved in other renewable energy projects, such as wind and solar. The company operates a number of wind farms in Norway, with a total installed capacity of 190 MW. It is also involved in the development of several large-scale solar projects, which will have a combined capacity of 100 MW.

Overall, E-CO Vannkraft AS is a leading player in the Norwegian renewable energy market, with a strong focus on small hydro power. The company's commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement has helped it to build a strong reputation in the industry, and it is well positioned to take advantage of the growing demand for renewable energy in Norway and beyond.