Skotfoss

Skotfoss is a village and industrial site located in Skien municipality, Vestfold og Telemark county, Norway. It sits on the Telemark Canal, specifically along the Skien River, a significant waterway connecting numerous lakes in the Telemark region to the sea.

Skotfoss is historically known for its paper mills, powered by the waterfalls (foss) in the river. The water power was instrumental in the development of the industrial sector in the area, particularly the production of paper and wood pulp. The presence of readily available hydropower contributed significantly to the growth of the village.

Today, Skotfoss remains a local center with residential areas and some continued industrial activity, although the scale of paper production has decreased significantly from its peak. The location along the Telemark Canal also makes it a point of interest for tourism related to canal boating and recreation.

The name "Skotfoss" is derived from the Old Norse words skot (meaning a projecting piece or point) and foss (meaning waterfall). It refers to the prominent waterfall in the river at that location.