Finland is on the brink of a major transformation in renewable energy with the development of its first industrial-scale offshore wind farm in Korsnäs, a small coastal community near Vaasa. This ambitious project, led by Vattenfall in collaboration with Metsähallitus, highlights Finland’s growing commitment to renewable energy and energy independence.
With a projected capacity between 1.3 and 2.5 GW, the Korsnäs offshore wind farm could generate up to 7 TWh annually, enough electricity to power over two million apartments. This capacity rivals some of Finland’s largest energy sources, including the Olkiluoto 3 nuclear reactor, underscoring the project’s potential to meet a substantial portion of the country’s future energy demand.
Detailed Planning and Environmental Responsibility
In offshore wind, meticulous planning is paramount. The Korsnäs project is currently in the critical phase of site assessments, including geophysical studies of the seabed, environmental impact assessments (EIA), and consideration of factors unique to Finland, such as ice conditions that could affect turbine maintenance and construction. This phase is expected to continue through 2024, with construction set to begin around 2030 and operations anticipated by 2034.
The environmental assessment, conducted by Vattenfall and Metsähallitus, addresses the entire lifecycle of the wind farm and considers its potential impacts on local ecosystems, including bird and bat populations. Vattenfall emphasizes sustainability by exploring solutions to minimize noise pollution and other environmental disruptions, such as the use of serrated turbine blade edges to reduce noise impact on marine life.
Navigating Permitting and Local Collaboration
One of the project’s most challenging aspects is navigating a complex permitting process. The wind farm will affect various sectors, including national defense, maritime traffic, aviation, and local industries like fishing. Vattenfall is working closely with authorities and stakeholders to secure necessary approvals and minimize any negative impacts.
For Korsnäs and surrounding communities, this project represents not only an energy transformation but also an economic one. Vattenfall has prioritized local engagement through regular “Vind Café” meetings, where residents are informed about project developments and can voice concerns. The project is expected to create numerous job opportunities in fields beyond energy, including logistics, research, and security, bringing economic revitalization to the area.
Building on Vattenfall’s Offshore Wind Experience
Vattenfall’s extensive experience with offshore wind farms in the Netherlands and Denmark positions it well for the Korsnäs project. Drawing on over 25 years in the field, Vattenfall is also exploring innovative energy solutions, such as hybrid parks that combine wind and solar energy with green hydrogen production, as exemplified by the Zeevonk project in the Netherlands. This expertise promises to bring advanced, low-carbon technologies to Finland’s energy landscape.
A Step Toward a Fossil-Free Finland
As Finland pushes towards its climate goals, the Korsnäs offshore wind farm represents a critical step forward. Beyond the immediate benefits of renewable energy production and job creation, the project symbolizes Finland’s commitment to a fossil-free future. It could also set a model for sustainable offshore wind development across the Baltic region.
The Korsnäs project is more than an energy initiative—it’s a milestone for Finnish innovation, resilience, and environmental stewardship. With its potential to transform both the local community and Finland’s energy landscape, it marks a turning point in the nation’s path towards a sustainable future.
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