Fingrid’s final report on offshore wind connection possibilities marks a significant milestone for Finland’s renewable energy future. The report identifies seven potential connection points along Finland’s west coast and in Inkoo, enabling up to 9 GW of offshore wind power capacity to join the grid by the 2030s. For Ilmatar, these developments underscore the growing momentum in the offshore wind sector and provide vital clarity for long-term project planning.
Key updates, such as the inclusion of Kokkola as a new connection point and improved timelines for Southwest Finland, highlight Fingrid’s responsiveness to industry input. While investment decisions are yet to be made, the report lays the groundwork for advancing collaboration between developers and Finland’s transmission system operator.
“We, at Ilmatar, are particularly encouraged by the updates in the Raisio connection region. Fingrid has taken on board feedback from us and other developers, moving the connection point closer to feasible landing sites and allowing for earlier connections. The inclusion of Uusikaupunki as a potential connection point is also much appreciated, especially for Ilmatar’s Åland project Stormskär/Väderskär, and EEZ project Vågskär”, says Anna Häger, regional manager responsible for offshore.
There is still work to be done to refine the framework for network connections. Ilmatar is committed to actively participating in developing network connection agreements, aiming for pre-agreements that provide greater certainty for developers involved in long-term offshore wind projects and off-takers.
“While these plans are not yet investment decisions from Fingrid, they signal a positive direction. It’s reassuring to see Finland’s transmission system operator showing a willingness to connect offshore wind and engage constructively with developers”, says Jori Sihvonen, project manager for EEZ at Ilmatar, and continues: “Collaboration like this is key to unlocking Finland’s offshore wind potential.”