The Defense Forces Do Not Want Wind Power Here
The Finnish Defense Forces oppose offshore wind farms in the Gulf of Finland, citing reasons related to electricity pricing and infrastructure.
The Finnish Defense Forces have expressed their opposition to the establishment of offshore wind farms in the Gulf of Finland, primarily due to concerns that the current electricity prices in Finland are too low to make such projects economically viable. Despite interest from offshore wind operators, they face significant hurdles, including inadequate infrastructure, which is crucial for the expansion of wind energy projects. Currently, the country is preparing for 11 offshore wind projects, but progress has been sluggish, raising doubts about their success, especially given challenges like freezing sea conditions.
Of the 11 offshore projects, ten are located within Finnish territorial waters with only one project in the Åland Islands area. The Defense Forces have clearly stated they do not want any offshore wind farms south of Åland, which underscores the complexity of balancing defense considerations with renewable energy ambitions. Anni Mikkonen from Finland's renewable energy association noted that, while there are favorable conditions for wind energy in the Gulf of Finland, the military's stance limits opportunities for development in that region.
The focus on wind energy in Finland has predominantly been on the southwestern and western parts of the country for onshore wind farms. Experts, such as Mikkonen, believe that diversifying the locations for wind power generation—by establishing wind farms in the eastern regions and offshore in more favorable areas—could enhance the overall energy supply for the nation. However, the military's position poses significant challenges that could hinder Finland's broader renewable energy goals.