Our history

Today, Elkem is a globally-leading metals and materials producer, with more than 3,000 employees, 21 production sites and four research centres worldwide.

Anniversary and Creative Power

To celebrate Elkem's 100-year anniversary in 2004, Elkem commissioned Professor Knut Sogner to write the history of Elkem, resulting in the comprehensive book "Skaperkraft" ("Creative Power"). 

This is the story of a company defined by its enduring commitment to technological progress, and a century characterised by groundbreaking industrial milestones, global growth, and visionary industrial ambition. Along the way, Elkem has faced and overcome numerous challenges, each one strengthening the company’s resilience and shaping its identity.

In celebration of its 100-year anniversary, Professor Knut Sogner first adapted his comprehensive history of Elkem into a concise English edition in 2004, subsequently updating it with a new chapter to reflect the significant developments of the following decade.  

Download Skaperkraft // Creative Power here.

Back to the roots

After being acquired by Orkla in 2005, selling off the aluminium and power businesses and being acquired by China National Bluestar in 2011, Elkem returned refocused on the business areas that started with the invention of the Söderberg electrode in 1917.

In 2015, a chemical business in France was included as part of a new Silicones division. In June 2017 Elkem assumed management responsibility of Xinghuo Silicones, a silicones producer, and Yongdeng Silicon Materials, a silicon producer.

At Oslo Børs

In March 2018, Elkem was re-listed on the Oslo Stock Exchange (Oslo Børs) as Elkem ASA, marking a significant milestone in the company's journey.

In 2026, Elkem sold the majority of its Silicones division to Bluestar, with Bluestar exiting as an Elkem owner. The transaction marked the start of a new chapter for Elkem, positioning the company as a focused, pure-play metals and materials producer.

As Elkem embarks on its next decade, the company is committed to delivering sustainably produced silicon, ferrosilicon, foundry alloys and carbon solutions that shape a smarter, safer, and more sustainable future. Its strategy is guided by operational excellence, innovation and increased specialisation, with a focus on strengthening its leading position in existing markets and expanding in growth markets such as Asia and the Americas.