Community investments

We have special guidelines for community investments. These aim to ensure that such investments are made in line with Hydro’s business strategy, while at the same time supporting local and regional needs and development plans. Relevant interest groups are included in discussions, and we examine political and social aspects in order to ensure that Hydro’s investments do not have unintended consequences.

Transfer of technology and knowledge is an important way in which Hydro can contribute. We have initiated several projects to promote the development of competence and expertise in countries where we operate.

Important contributions

In total, Hydro spent about NOK 38 million on charitable donations, sponsorships and community investments in 2008. Important elements are our support of the Nobel Peace Center in Oslo and the Oslo Philharmonic Orchestra.

Other important contributions are the transfer of competence that takes place through our cooperation with universities and research institutions. This includes scholarships to selected PhD students within Hydro's business areas. In 2008 Hydro agreed with the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) to sponsor two professorships for three years within the electrolysis field and within alloy development and material technology. NTNU is committed to continue the positions after the conclusion of the sponsorship period. Together with Qatalum, Hydro is sponsoring an Aluminium Faculty Chair within Chemical Engineering at Qatar University. The professor will lecture on basic aluminium production processes.