Exchange of Experiences Between State Forests (LP) and Finnish State Forests | Metsähallitus
The purpose of the study visit by representatives of the State Forests (LP) to Helsinki was to exchange experiences with the Finnish State Forests | Metsähallitus. Field visits, meetings with experts, and consultation sessions lasted a week and primarily focused on managing wind energy projects. The “Forest of Energy” project team returned enriched with practical tips and experiences, which they will consider implementing in their domestic operations.
How Do They Do It in the North?
Metsähallitus manages 12.6 million hectares of forest and water areas, constituting almost one-third of Finland’s land area. This organization’s activities combine economic aspects with public administration duties, representing a unique model of natural resource management. We met with Juha S. Niemelä, Director General of Metsähallitus, and his team, who clearly explained their work principles. Finnish State Forests play a crucial role in developing wind energy. One of their strategic goals is to triple renewable energy production by 2030.
Metsähallitus projects include:
- Selecting appropriate areas,
- Identifying key environmental values,
- Conducting public consultations,
- Performing economic and technical analysis,
- Proceeding with spatial planning processes,
- Preparing power plant layout plans,
- Designing road and energy connection networks,
- Applying for required permits and decisions.
Economics and Ecology
Electricity from new wind farms is sold to large consumers, such as Google, through long-term sales agreements. These projects are carried out without state support, highlighting their economic viability.
Finnish experiences in wind energy are incredibly valuable for our pilot project “Wind Turbines Over Forests.” Representatives of Metsähallitus emphasized the importance of extensive public consultations, environmental and technical analyses, and spatial planning. Their project implementation model, which includes preparing and selling project rights, is highly inspiring.
Case study – Rustari Wind Farm
The Rustari Wind Farm consists of 8 turbines with a total capacity of 44 MW, corresponding to the annual electricity consumption of over 32,000 households. This project, technically managed by OX2, is an excellent example of effectively using forest areas for renewable energy production.
We thank Ville Kokkonen for professionally presenting all the issues we inquired about. Key Aspects of Project Implementation:
- Preparatory Work: Conducting environmental studies and extensive public consultations from the project’s inception.
- Design and Construction: Utilizing existing road infrastructure and minimizing environmental impact.
- Operation and Management: No noticeable fire risk and minimal impact on local fauna and flora.
Summary
The study trip to the Finnish State Forests | Metsähallitus provided us with valuable information and practical tips that will contribute to the effective implementation of wind energy projects in the State Forests in Poland. The knowledge gained and the contacts established will be invaluable in further implementing the pilot project “Wind Turbines Over Forests.”
We invite you to follow our progress and further initiatives on LinkedIn, where we will share the next steps in developing the Forests for Climate program implemented by the State Forests.
