Wind Power set to Surpass Hydropower as Finland’s Leading Renewable Energy Source this Year

Wind power construction in Finland is progressing rapidly and is expected to surpass hydropower as the most used form of renewable electricity production in the country this year, according to the Wind Power Association. With 1,660 wind turbines already operational and 60 new ones commissioned this year, wind power currently produces over 7,000 megawatts of energy, which will increase to 8,000 megawatts once ongoing construction projects are completed.

Despite the positive outlook for wind power, some challenges remain. High interest rates and construction costs are delaying new investment decisions. The CEO of the Finnish Wind Energy Association, Anni Mikkonen, emphasizes the importance of network connection agreements and the impact of electricity consumption on new investments.

Mikkonen also notes that more than half of Finnish wind turbines are located in Ostrobothnia but there has been an increase in wind power construction in Central Finland and Satakunta region. She highlights the potential for wind power development in Eastern Finland as well, referencing a recent working group report that highlighted opportunities and challenges in that region.

The growth of wind power in Finland is viewed as a positive step towards sustainable energy production and economic development despite obstacles that need to be addressed for further expansion.