Joensuu region calls for urgent investments in electrical grids to meet rising demands

The Joensuu region urgently needs investments in local electrical grids due to rising electricity consumption and energy-intensive projects. Kosti Rautiainen, the customer director at the electricity network company Caruna, emphasized that addressing these challenges necessitates a collaborative vision, timeline, and roadmap from the city, the network company, and project developers. Caruna owns the electricity network in Joensuu.

A proposed hydrogen facility in Iiksenniitty is expected to demand about 40% of the city’s electrical grid capacity once operational in 2027. Rautiainen reported an 8% increase in electricity consumption in Joensuu this year compared to last, largely driven by the electrification of transport. Currently, over 10% of vehicles in Caruna’s service area are electric; in Joensuu, the figure stands at around 6%.

Rautiainen mentioned that there is a need for roughly €15 million in investments for power lines and substations over the next decade. At the Eastern Finland Energy Forum, he discussed that boosting the high-voltage grid alone is insufficient for achieving the energy transition; investments must also extend to distribution networks. He highlighted the necessity for yearly investments of €1.2 billion across Finnish distribution networks to keep pace with a transitioning society, with Caruna’s share at €200 million annually.

Rautiainen pointed out that it is possible to secure hundreds of megawatts of additional capacity in the Joensuu area; however, these investment projects typically require 5-8 years for development due to lengthy planning, permitting, acquisitions, and zoning processes. Collaborating closely with the city could ensure smooth progress in meeting these timelines.