Finland’s Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment has established a coordination group to accelerate offshore wind power development. The group will work on creating a comprehensive “situation picture” of the sector, coordinating the timeline, and selecting sites for offshore wind projects in Finland’s territorial waters and exclusive economic zone. This initiative aligns with Finland’s ambitious goal of expanding offshore wind capacity by 2035, as outlined in the Government Programme.
The coordination group will oversee the implementation of the action plan published by a previously appointed offshore wind power working group. Its term will run until October 2027, and its activities will consider competing marine area uses, environmental impacts, market conditions, and infrastructure like grid connectivity. While the group itself has no decision-making power, it is tasked with providing strategic guidance.
In addition to appointing this group, the Finnish government has introduced a legislative proposal to Parliament that aims to enhance regulatory clarity and establish a competitive tendering model for offshore wind projects in the exclusive economic zone. This model seeks to ensure that offshore wind rights are awarded fairly and predictably.
The coordination group, chaired by Outi Vilén from the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Employment, includes representatives from various ministries and agencies, as well as permanent experts from relevant sectors. The group will work closely with the Åland Provincial Government and other regional stakeholders to streamline development and establish Finland as a leader in Baltic Sea offshore wind energy.
