Finland’s Strategic Move Towards Energy Independence and Renewable Power Amidst EU’s Push for Fossil Fuel Reduction
In a synchronized effort with the European Union’s decision to curtail fossil fuel imports from Russia following the Ukrainian invasion, the Finnish government has embarked on a path to bolster its energy independence. Central to this strategic move is the prioritization of wind power, driven by the additional advantage of producing green hydrogen. However, despite significant progress in wind turbine installations, Finland faces challenges in streamlining the planning and permitting process, which necessitates increased administrative resources to expedite the expansion of wind power capacity.
Wind Power Development in Finland:
As of December 2022, Finland proudly boasts a considerable wind power infrastructure, comprising 962 wind turbines with a cumulative capacity of 3257MW. Furthermore, the country has over 330 ongoing wind projects that are anticipated to generate an additional 2000MW of capacity once completed. While most of these projects are concentrated in the Ostrobothni region, there is a gradual emergence of wind power plants in central and eastern Finland.
The Role of the Finnish Wind Power Association (FWPA):
The Finnish Wind Power Association (FWPA) has highlighted a crucial obstacle hindering the swift construction of wind power facilities—the planning and permitting process. To overcome this challenge and expedite the rollout of wind power capacity, it is imperative to allocate additional resources to the administrative courts. By enhancing its capacity to fast-track appeals, Finland can facilitate a more streamlined and efficient implementation of wind power projects throughout the country.
Finland’s decision to prioritize wind power to enhance energy independence aligns seamlessly with the European Union’s objective of reducing reliance on Russian fossil fuel imports following the Ukrainian invasion. With an impressive number of wind turbines already in operation and numerous projects under construction, Finland is well on its way to bolstering its renewable energy portfolio. However, addressing the challenges associated with the planning and permitting process is essential for a smoother and accelerated transition to a more sustainable energy future. By investing in the necessary administrative resources, Finland can overcome these hurdles and solidify its position as a frontrunner in renewable energy innovation.
