A recent survey conducted by the Chemical Industry in Finland reveals that over 75% of industry leaders advocate for an increase in nuclear power to address the growing electricity demands spurred by the green transition. According to Fingrid's forecast, electricity consumption in Finland may nearly double by 2035, emphasizing the urgency for new energy solutions. More than 44% of executives expressed a desire to expand electricity storage capacities, while interest in renewable sources such as wind, solar, and hydro power is also significant among the respondents, indicating a shift towards sustainable energy solutions.

The chemical industry accounts for approximately 10% of Finland's electricity usage, and leaders within this sector are increasingly concerned about how high electricity prices are impacting the competitiveness of their operations. A staggering 60% of the member companies reported that the high electricity prices this winter have adversely affected their profitability. This highlights an urgent need to reassess Finland's energy strategy to ensure that the chemical sector remains viable under rising energy costs, particularly when relying on weather-dependent sources of renewable energy like wind and solar power.

In response to these challenges, chemical industry representatives are urging the Finnish government to streamline the permitting processes for nuclear power projects. They argue that nuclear energy is a necessary complement to renewable sources to handle demand peaks. As Finland navigates its transition towards greener energy, striking a balance between sustainable growth and industrial competitiveness is crucial, making the push for nuclear power a pivotal subject in ongoing energy discussions.