Neoen and Prokon, two prominent players in the renewable energy sector, have commenced the construction of two wind projects in Finland. These projects, jointly owned by both companies, will have a combined capacity of 160MW, marking a significant step towards clean energy production.
The construction of the Storbötet and Lumivaara wind farms, located in the municipalities of Uusikaarlepyy and Hyrynsalmi respectively, has received the green light, with Vestas being entrusted with the responsibility of carrying out the construction work. Storbötet wind farm, situated in Ostrobothnia, will consist of 17 Vestas wind turbines, collectively generating 105.4MW of power. This capacity exceeds the initial plan of 95MW, demonstrating the project's potential for enhanced energy production. On the other hand, Lumivaara wind farm, located in Kainuu, will feature nine Vestas wind turbines, producing a total capacity of 55.8MW, surpassing the original target of 53MW.
Both wind farms are expected to become fully operational by 2025, playing a pivotal role in Finland's sustainable energy landscape. These projects have secured long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs) with Equinix, guaranteeing a substantial portion of the generated green energy. Storbötet wind farm will supply Equinix with 60% of the energy, accompanied by guarantees of origin, while Lumivaara wind farm will provide 80% of Equinix's required energy. Notably, this collaboration marks the second and third PPAs between Neoen, Prokon, and Equinix, following the Björkliden wind PPA.
The Storbötet and Lumivaara wind farms promise to deliver competitively priced electricity, aligning with Equinix's global commitment to achieving climate neutrality by 2030. Neoen holds an 80% stake in each of these projects, with the remaining 20% being owned by Prokon. The two companies have worked together closely to develop these wind farms, exemplifying the power of collaboration at a local level to realize renewable energy goals.
Jakob Kjellman, Director of Prokon Finland, expressed his satisfaction with the initiation of construction, emphasizing the achievement of a long-standing objective. He highlighted the success of the collaboration between landowners and Prokon, underscoring the significance of united efforts at the grassroots level to foster renewable energy solutions for a sustainable society.
Xavier Barbaro, CEO and Chairman of Neoen, extended his gratitude to the teams from Neoen and Prokon for their fruitful cooperation over the years. He expressed delight in the rekindled partnership with Vestas and Equinix, emphasizing the value of building upon existing relationships as a catalyst for growth in the renewable energy sector.
