Experts from Finland’s LUT University have mapped the offshore wind energy potential in the Åland Islands for the local authorities. As it turns out, the region has huge potential for offshore wind development. A large wind farm could cover half of Finland’s current electricity production.
According to studies completed in November, the conditions of Åland maritime area are well suited for large-scale wind energy production. A roadmap commissioned by the county council sought to identify what would be the best way to maximise the benefits of wind energy. You can find the study file HERE.
Scientists indicate that the Åland Islands region is suitable to build even the world’s largest offshore wind farm. The largest installation currently under construction is the Dogger Bank farm, which will generate 18 TWh of electricity per year, while the Åland potential could reach 31 TWh per year.
A zone for the development of offshore wind energy has already been established on the Åland Islands, with an area of approximately 1 000 km2 . According to the LUT report, a total of over 500 wind turbines could be built in the area.
“The Åland Islands have a huge potential for offshore wind energy development, the utilisation of which will have a significant impact on the future energy markets of both Finland and Sweden,” comments Petteri Laaksonen, Research Director at LUT University.
As it reads, the goal of the Åland regional government is to use the sea for large-scale energy production and to remain a major player in renewable energy production.
Hydrogen production will also be key
The LUT report also examined the potential for hydrogen production in Åland. Power-to-X technology would add value compared to wind farm power generation alone. Not only electricity but also hydrogen and fuels would be exported from the region.
Alphonse Röblom, Minister of Environment and Energy at Åland Provincial Government, believes that the development described in the roadmap would be a great opportunity for the people of the region.
“I believe that this development will help the entire Nordic region to achieve its climate goals”, Röblom added.
