Located in the municipality of Yli-Ii in Northern Ostrobothnia, the building project used charred wood for the exterior walls — a sustainable and ecological material choice.
The total area of the Pahkakoski Service and Visitor Center is approximately 700 m². The building includes office space, and a maintenance hall leased to the turbine supplier, as well as visitor facilities featuring a meeting room, kitchen, accommodation space, and sauna. The center serves as the maintenance base and storage site for the wind farm, as well as a venue for stakeholder meetings and visits by Ilmatar personnel.
Charred wood was selected for the exterior walls due to its aesthetic and functional qualities as well as its ecological benefits. The charred wood is domestically sourced pine.
“Charred wood is highly resistant to moisture, UV radiation, and weather fluctuations, making it a long-lasting and maintenance-free alternative to traditional materials. Its natural protective surface helps prevent rot and insect damage,” says Project Manager Niklas Löf, who oversaw the construction.
Locality and community spirit at the core of partner selection
Construction of the Pahkakoski Service and Visitor Center began in June 2024 and was completed in February 2025. Ilmatar aims to support local communities and entrepreneurs in its project areas and chose the Oulu-based IP Heikkilä as the main contractor. Property maintenance is handled by local company Yli-Iin Kiinteistöhuolto Esko Viitala Tmi.
The project demonstrates how environmentally friendly technologies and local energy production can be integrated into modern construction.
The Pahkakoski Wind Farm will consist of 30 turbines, with commercial production expected to start in 2025–2026. The wind farm is being built using an innovative TCI operating model in collaboration with Silvasti Oy.
