According to the latest project database compiled by Renewables Finland, approximately 56 gigawatts (GW) of onshore wind power are currently planned in Finland. More than four gigawatts of these projects have already been granted building permits, and some are already under construction. A broad wind power project portfolio ensures that Finland has the capacity to rapidly increase new electricity generation when other industrial investments require it. In addition to enabling other investments, the potential investment value of onshore wind power in Finland amounts to approximately EUR 80 billion.
The development of onshore wind power in Finland continues to be strong. At present, there are a total of 401 onshore wind projects at various stages of planning, with a combined capacity of approximately 56.3 GW and nearly 6,900 turbines.
There are eight projects under construction (982 MW) and 43 fully permitted projects (3,672 MW). In addition, a significant number of projects are in pre-development or in the zoning and environmental impact assessment phases. Although not all planned projects will ultimately be completed, the extensive project portfolio provides a strong foundation for Finland’s future investment development.
“Our significant wind power potential gives Finland the opportunity to rapidly increase electricity production when new industrial investments and the ongoing electrification of society require it. After permitting, wind power can be implemented quickly and cost-effectively, making it one of Finland’s key competitive advantages in attracting electricity-intensive industrial investments,” says Anni Mikkonen, CEO of Renewables Finland.
Wind power projects are also substantial domestic investments in their own right – the combined potential investment value of the projects currently under development amounts to nearly EUR 80 billion.
Renewable energy projects operate on long time horizons, and their impacts extend decades into the future. “Long-term consistency is one of the most important principles of energy policy. Decision-making and regulation related to energy must be consistent and predictable. This enables Finland to maintain its reputation as a stable investment destination and an attractive investment environment. That would be a highly important step by policymakers to promote economic growth,” Mikkonen continues.
Strongest Growth in Northern Ostrobothnia
By region, the largest number of onshore wind projects is in Northern Ostrobothnia, with 123 projects. This is followed by Lapland (45 projects) and Ostrobothnia (36 projects). At the municipal level, the highest numbers of onshore wind projects are in Pyhäjärvi, Pudasjärvi, and Haapavesi, each with 11 projects. Oulu has 10 projects.