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This year’s EnergyWeek opened with optimism but also with a clear message from industry. Companies are calling for stable and long-term decisions in energy policy.
“I have a feeling this will be the best EnergyWeek ever.”
With those words CEO Paula Erkkilä, from Ostrobothnia Chamber of Commerce, opened the traditional energy and climate seminar that launched this year’s EnergyWeek.
Planning for the events began already last autumn and the programme is organised by a broad network of partners including VASEK, Merinova and the City of Vaasa. Erkkilä says the atmosphere at that time was shaped by positive news related to the icebreaker deal.
She notes that the global situation now looks different, but one thing remains the same.
”The energy transition is just as important today as it was then.”
Companies call for stable rules
The audience included top politicians, energy experts and public officials from across the sector. Erkkilä addressed them with a clear message.
”Companies that invest tens of millions or even billions of euros make decisions with a long time horizon. Investments are not made for a single budget year.”
She says Finland must demonstrate that the country is a reliable place for investment. Domestic policy should reduce risks since there are already many external risks that cannot be controlled.
Minister highlights Finland’s strengths
Minister of Economic Affairs Sakari Puisto says Finland has a strong energy system, a well-functioning electricity grid and diverse and clean energy production. He also stresses the importance of keeping electricity prices competitive.
Puisto notes that Finland’s energy system has undergone major changes in recent years. Dependence on fossil fuels has declined and the country has also reduced its reliance on Russia.
He also highlights the Vaasa region as a strong example of cooperation between the city, companies and universities.
According to Puisto, many other cities could learn from this model. He encourages even deeper cooperation and hopes that micro-companies will also take part.
Easier permitting
Marko Pukkinen, Director General of the new Finnish Supervisory Agency, presented plans for their model where companies could handle environmental permit processes through a single entry point.
The aim is faster and more consistent decisions where all projects are treated equally regardless of where in Finland they are located.
Pukkinen says there have previously been regional differences in how permits are handled. These differences should disappear in the future.
At the same time he points out that the new authority is still in an early phase and that its procedures are still being developed.
Here you can find the full program and register for events.
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