2.1.2023

Local energy solutions bring vitality to municipalities

Local energy solutions bring vitality to municipalities

Major, mega-class clean energy investments have been particularly prominent in the public eye recently, the most recent of which was Blastr Green Steel’s investment in Ingå. At the other end of the spectrum, small solutions carried out by a single operator, such as housing associations’ energy communities, are also vital. In addition to these, we also need local solutions that not only ensure the availability of renewable energy, but also bring substantial overall investments to regions, attract operators to the area, create jobs and increase tax revenue – one area at a time. These actions will boost vitality on a local level.

Nivala industrial village to extend to Kurunpuhto – Near Energy for the industrial area

Near Energy® is a local energy solution developed by Skarta Energy, bringing vitality and tax benefits to municipalities. The Town of Nivala has been an active proponent of Near Energy; the cooperation has run smoothly and as a result Skarta Energy is now preparing several solar power projects in Nivala.

The cooperation began with the planning of the repurposing of Hitura mine. Almost EUR 9 million has been granted by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment to support the implementation of the solar farm planned for the area and predicted to produce 50 MW (130 ha) of energy. Thanks go in large part to the town’s active approach and communication of the plans both within the town and to national decision-makers.

At the same time, the opportunities for Near Energy have also been explored in the town. Finland’s largest industrial village is now expanding to Kurunpuhto industrial zone. Plans have been jointly developed there for a 5 MW Near Energy solar farm, which would provide the companies in the industrial area with long-term solar energy.

“Near Energy will attract a brand new kind of industrial operator to the area, creating the basis for new international operators to start operations in Nivala. Individual landowners and local companies will also benefit from Skarta Energy’s active approach here,” states Business Service Manager Kimmo Niskanen of NIHAK.

Are energy solutions a topical matter in your municipality too?

We are here to support municipalities. Together, we survey areas to undergo land use planning, attract to the area new companies and industry, and get involved in negotiations and meetings as a partner. We want to make change easy for municipalities. All we need from you is active involvement.

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Vikke Saarelainen
Vikke Saarelainen
Executive Vice President