Fortum and Helen Oy have successfully concluded the construction of a 380MW wind farm in Finland, marking a significant milestone after more than two years of development.
Situated in the areas of Narpio and Kristiinankaupunki in western Finland, the Pjelax site is now home to 56 turbines, representing a substantial contribution to the nation's renewable energy capacity.
Construction commenced in January 2022 and was executed on schedule, thanks to the collaborative efforts of over 400 landowners, local business owners, organizations, and officials.
Fortum holds a 60% stake in the wind farm, with Helen owning the remaining 40%. Helen will purchase approximately 50% of the wind farm's electricity production throughout its operational lifespan.
Markus Rauramo, President and Chief Executive of Fortum, highlighted the project's significance in reducing carbon dioxide emissions, stating, “Pjelax is a prime example of how Fortum helps its customers reduce their carbon dioxide emissions.”
Olli Sirkka, Chief Executive of Helen, underscored the joint commitment to increasing renewable electricity production, stating, “The Pjelax wind farm is a significant joint effort by Helen and Fortum to increase renewable electricity production.”
The construction involved extensive infrastructure work and earthworks, managed by Suvic Oy and Närpiö-based Simons Infra Oy. Transporting the turbines through the port of Kaskinen required 728 special transport operations.
The economic benefits of the wind farm extend to local communities, with municipal land rental income and property tax revenue expected to total millions of euros annually.
Contributions from Finland's transmission system operator Fingrid and turbine supplier Nordex were instrumental in ensuring the project's smooth execution.
The completion of the wind farm was celebrated by local residents at the opening ceremony, emphasizing the collective effort to advance Finland's transition to clean energy.
