Massive power line project sparks cross-regional protest movement in Finland
A planned 190-kilometre high-voltage power line cutting through four Finnish regions has triggered a citizen-led opposition movement, public broadcaster Yle reports. The project, proposed by national grid operator Fingrid, aims to meet rising electricity demand but faces resistance over environmental damage and property value concerns.
The so-called Harjulinja (Ridge Line) would stretch from Pyhäjärvi in North Ostrobothnia to Kangasniemi in Southern Savo, crossing North Savo and Central Finland. Five route options are under consideration, affecting 14 municipalities: Pyhäjärvi, Kiuruvesi, Keitele, Pielavesi, Rautalampi, Vesanto, Suonenjoki, Pieksämäki, Pihtipudas, Hankasalmi, Viitasaari, Konnevesi, Laukaa, and Kangasniemi.
Fingrid argues the line is essential to maintain uniform electricity prices nationwide and comply with market regulations. However, the “No to Harjulinja” movement—uniting residents across the regions—claims the project threatens untouched nature, local livelihoods, and landowner rights. Protesters, including Rautalampi resident Ari Tanskanen, call it “outright colonialism,” noting that while data centres proliferate in southern Finland, northern areas bear the environmental cost of powering them.
Debate over necessity and green credentials
Critics question whether the project aligns with Finland’s green transition. Kimmo Collander of the Landowners’ Association highlights the contradiction: “Can we call this a green investment if it requires hundreds of hectares of compulsory land purchases and permanent forest destruction?” He advocates locating energy-intensive industries closer to production sites.
Local opinions are divided. Rautalampi council leader Joni-Matti Kuikka, whose own land lies along a proposed route, supports the line as critical for attracting investments: “If a municipality is too far from power lines, it’s hard to expect any electricity-dependent development, whether data centres or other projects.”
The opposition movement plans further lobbying in Helsinki this month, seeking greater political engagement. While dialogue with Fingrid is described as constructive, protesters demand stronger scrutiny of the project’s broader impacts.