In Finland, the next day's spot prices for electricity are made public the previous afternoon. However, various market players have developed models that can predict electricity prices for several days ahead, which are not available to the average consumer. Professor Pertti Järventausta from Tampere University notes that this hidden information could be beneficial for everyday users, allowing them to adapt their energy usage based on predicted price changes. For instance, if a significant price increase is expected within two days, consumers could decide to charge their electric vehicles before prices rise.

Järventausta has been advocating for the transparency of such forecasting models in various forums, emphasizing that some electricity sales companies have already adopted these forecasts as a service for their customers. This not only serves the interests of consumers but may also present a competitive edge for electricity providers that offer this service. The professor remarks that while predictions can be made for about a week into the future, the uncertainty increases with longer-term forecasts, indicating the need for consumer access to this information to make better energy decisions.

The issue raises broader implications regarding energy pricing and consumer rights in the evolving landscape of renewable energies and market competition. As electricity usage becomes more aligned with smart technology, having access to reliable price forecasts could empower consumers and encourage responsible energy consumption, ultimately shaping the future of electricity markets in Finland and beyond.