German renewables company BayWa r.e. has been commissioned by Swedish forest owner Stora Enso to co-develop a series of onshore wind projects with a planned capacity of more than 1.2 gigawatts (GW) across central and northern Sweden.
The agreement marks a strategic partnership between the two companies, with BayWa r.e. Nordic leading the development and implementation of projects that will comprise at least 158 wind turbines. The collaboration could be expanded to include solar energy and battery storage systems (BESS), the companies said.
“This partnership marks an important milestone in our portfolio strategy in the Nordics,” said David Rosberg, chief executive of BayWa r.e. Nordic. “Together with Stora Enso, we can develop significant projects on land that is exceptionally well-suited for wind power, while also contributing to Sweden’s and the regions’ transition to renewable energy.”
The sites were selected following an internal assessment and remain in the early planning stage. Upcoming steps will include the formation of project organisations, feasibility studies, environmental and cultural heritage assessments, and engagement with municipalities and local communities.
BayWa r.e.’s chief operating officer Daniel Gäfke noted the potential scale of the collaboration. “Our expertise in project development and our proven track record in executing complex renewable energy projects demonstrate our commitment to driving the energy transition,” he said. “This partnership not only reflects our shared vision but paves the way for impactful energy projects in the Nordics.”
Stora Enso, one of the world’s largest private forest owners, views the initiative as part of its broader sustainability strategy.
“As one of the world’s largest private forest owners, Stora Enso sees it as a natural step to contribute to the energy transition by making land available to realise the onshore wind power potential in Sweden,” said Emil Thalin, director of energy development at Stora Enso. “Together with BayWa r.e., we are now accelerating this effort by combining our strength as a landowner with BayWa r.e.’s extensive experience in renewable energy.”
The permitting process is expected to be completed within five years.
