Finnish electricity system operator Fingrid indicates that the upcoming wind energy boom threatens the transmission capacity of the electricity system in the western part of the country. Accordingly, the operator is exploring options for developing the transmission system.
The record growth of wind power will challenge Fingrid in the coming years. New wind power projects will require new transmission connections to the grid, in addition to the grid reinforcements already made on the west coast. Fingrid will work with various stakeholders to explore opportunities for connecting new wind installations. The analysis is expected to be completed in the fall.
Although Fingrid has renewed and strengthened the entire grid on the west coast, it is now estimated that its transmission capacity will be close to its limits, especially in maintenance or emergency situations. For this reason, Fingrid has begun environmental surveys and preparations for the construction of new 400 kV transmission lines. The new transmission lines from Kristiinankaupung to Tampere and from Kalajoe to Central Finland are expected to be completed in 2027 and 2028, respectively.
Fingrid will increase its investment program to €3 billion over the next ten years.
Currently, Finland has installed approx. 4,000 MW in wind power. By the end of the year, this capacity is expected to rise to 5,000 MW and in three years it is expected to be close to the 10,000 MW level. Wind power in Finland is expected to reach more than 20,000 MW in the 2030s.
