## March, 2005 - Powel ASA, a leader in providing software systems and services to utilities, today announced a NOK 50 million, three-year agreement with Norwegian power companies Statkraft Energi AS, Hydro, and Nord-Trøndelag Elektrisitetsverk (NTE).  Powel ASA will support processes and tasks at all three companies relating to improvements in generation planning and network operations efficiency.

Powel’s systems operate around the clock at power-utility dispatch centers. Applications include ongoing planning of power generation and improved planning and operations of transmission and distribution networks. Powel’s solutions improve planning quality and help utilities consolidate use of physical and financial resources. Powel ASA is committed to the long-term success and growth of each of their business partners.

“We chose Powel as our solution provider because their products are market-leading when it comes to forecasting and planning power generation,” said Siri Revelsby, manager of the Power Portfolio at Hydro Olje & Energi. “Moreover, Powel provides critical decision support for day-to-day operations. They have many years of experience in the energy sector, making their value go far beyond pure system delivery.”

Powel ASA is the Nordic-market leader in providing energy companies with computer software and consulting services. Founded in 1996, Powel ASA has more than 200 employees at its offices in Trondheim, Norway, the USA and Canada.

Contacts:
CEO Jon Einar Værnes (work)+47 73 80 45 00 (cell) +47 481 64 555
Vice President Finance Øystein Sæther (work)+47 73 80 45 00 (cell) +47 481 64 558
Vice President Power & TradeTom A. Røtting (work) +47 73 80 45 00 (cell) +47 481 64 544