Åkerströms and Allgon open new power station in Björbo – greater capacity and 100% green energy

Four years after the devastating fire that destroyed the historic Fänforsen power station, a new, modern and powerful facility is now complete in Björbo, where both Allgon and Åkerströms are based today. The property is now owned by Allgon, which is also responsible for production and development, while Åkerströms manages sales, marketing and service under its well-known brand. The official opening on 4 September marks both the end of a long reconstruction journey and the beginning of a new era of sustainable, local energy production.

The new power station has greater capacity than its predecessor and makes the Björbo operations fully self-sufficient in green electricity. The building has been designed to fit into the cultural and historical surroundings at Fänforsen, while being equipped with modern technology, automated controls and more efficient turbine.

“This is more than a technical investment – it is a commitment to sustainability, local identity and the energy supply of the future. We are proud to carry the tradition forward in a modern way, and with the increased capacity we are now well prepared to meet future needs and potential expansion,” says Hans Persson, Site Manager in Björbo.

From mill to combined power station

Fänforsen Mill was built in 1860–1861, with a canal constructed to connect both inlet and outlet to the Fänforsen rapids. In 1918–1919, power station operations were added, making the mill an important producer of both flour and electricity.
In 1933, the Björbo Crispbread Factory was completed, and the mill became a central part of the factory’s production. When Åkerströms took over the former crispbread factory in the early 1970s, the power station naturally became part of the company’s energy supply and identity. Until the fire in 2021, it provided around one-third of the company’s electricity needs and produced exclusively green power.

Heritage and future in balance

Founded in 1918, Åkerströms is internationally recognized for its radio remote control solutions. From the very beginning, the company has had a strong local presence in Björbo.
With Åkerströms’ strong brand and parent company Allgon’s commitment to development and sustainability, the Björbo operations continue to grow and create value – both locally and globally. The reconstruction of the power station is an important step in jointly securing the energy supply of the future while preserving the heritage of one of the region’s most historic companies.

Invitation to press and public

The opening ceremony and open house will take place on 4 September 2025, between 14:00–18:00 in Björbo. During the afternoon, visitors will have the opportunity to join guided tours of the operations and the new power station, meet key people behind the project and learn more about the investment. On site, there will also be a demonstration area where customers showcase vehicles and machinery equipped with Åkerströms’ radio remote control solutions.

At 17:00 the official opening ceremony of the power station will take place, where Helena Höij, County Governor of Dalarna, will deliver an inaugural speech and cut the ribbon.