Plans for 200 new wind turbines in Tornio, Finland

In Tornio, Finland, plans are underway for the construction of up to 200 new wind turbines in the coming years. Six land-based wind energy projects could potentially increase the current number of turbines tenfold. Currently, Tornio hosts a park with eight wind turbines in Kitkiäisvaara and 13 offshore wind turbines in Röyttä.

Wind energy construction is primarily focused on the northern and northeastern parts of the city, with the existing Kitkiäisvaara turbines located over 30 kilometers from the city center. The three largest projects—Karhakkamaa, Haapamaa, and Martimo—could yield more than 170 new turbines. Some proposals also envision multiple turbines extending into the neighboring municipality of Tervola.

Plans for the Karhakkamaa wind farm near the Finland-Sweden border have been in progress for years and could see the installation of up to 48 turbines, each standing at 300 meters. Environmental impact assessments for Karhakkamaa include international consultations due to its proximity to the Swedish border. This project faces opposition from both Finnish and Swedish stakeholders concerned about potential landscape, noise, and light pollution issues.

Markus Kannala, Tornio’s technical director, indicates that property tax revenue from these wind parks could yield millions of euros for the municipality, with an average tax of over €30,000 per turbine. He notes that these projects can also attract additional business interests related to the green transition.

Public consultations for the Valkiavaara and Kolopetäjä-Rovavaara proposals are scheduled, allowing for community feedback on these initiatives. Interested parties can participate remotely in the discussions.