Celebrating a decade of Wind Finland – highlights from 10th anniversary seminar
The 10th anniversary of Wind Finland was filled with celebration and valuable insights into the future of wind power. The seminar, held in the vibrant atmosphere of Kaapelitehdas, kicked off with breakfast and a drum show by Takomo. The event also featured the public unveiling of Renewables Finland new brand and website, a significant milestone for the organization.
The first session focused on the political landscape of Finnish wind power, with key updates provided by our very own Anni Mikkonen and Heidi Paalatie, followed by an inspiring keynote from Ville Niinistö, MEP, who spoke on the role of wind power in Europe’s energy transition. The key message was that the energy transition with renewable electricity and industrial investments will happen in Finland – if policymakers support it. Finland has all the potential for success, but we need political will and vision.
Throughout the day, attendees delved into discussions on the integration of wind into future energy systems, with experts like Hannele Holttinen from Aalto University, Tuomas Rauhala from Fingrid and Nikita Semkin from AFRY highlighting how wind power can enhance grid security and offer new market opportunities through ancillary services.
In the 3rd session, things got a little steamy – literally! Johannes Brunila from OX2 and Juha Känkänen from Ålandsbanken Funds Ltd. discussed financing wind power in a sauna. As they “sweated it out” over investment strategies, the audience couldn’t help but chuckle at the perfect Finnish setting for a money talk: where serious financial discussions meet a true Nordic tradition. The only thing missing? A dip in the lake afterward!
Sustainability was a key theme in the afternoon, with thought-provoking talks on ESG due diligence and advancements in turbine sustainability. Lia Heasman from Castren & Snellman and Jenny-Li Holmström from Taaleri emphasized the growing importance of sustainable practices in the industry. Developments in the sustainability of wind turbines were discussed in more detail by Sandra Pfeiffer, Nordex SE & Andrew Harwell, Vestas Wind Systems A/S. It was agreed in the dual that wind power technology with its subcontracting chain is an essential factor in the sustainability question.
As the day concluded with cocktails, dinner, and an evening event featuring karaoke hosted by Taaleri, the energy carried on late into the night, perfectly capturing the spirit of collaboration and innovation that defines the wind power sector today.
We want to thank all the attendees, speakers and partners, and of course our fabulous host Taamir Fareed from Taaleri, for making this milestone event a success. We look forward to seeing everyone again next year for another inspiring edition of Wind Finland!
Psst, don’t forget to check out the new website of Renewables Finland at suomenuusiutuvat.fi
