Fingrid constructs new power line to enhance Järvilinja and bolster Finland’s energy security

Fingrid, the Finnish transmission system operator, is currently constructing a new power line across Finland to strengthen the Järvilinja. The project has an estimated cost of €280 million, making it one of the company’s largest electricity transmission projects. This investment aims to enhance Finland’s energy security and facilitate significant green transition projects in Eastern Finland. Construction began last year, with completion anticipated by the end of 2026.

The nearly 300-kilometer route primarily follows the existing power line path. New 400-kilovolt and 110-kilovolt lines are being built alongside existing lines or replacing old 110-kilovolt lines in northern areas. This upgraded connection will improve electricity supply from north to south and is expected to provide cheaper electricity from Sweden once the Aurora line, a new 400-kilovolt line being constructed in collaboration with Sweden, is complete.

The strengthening of the Järvilinja is crucial for accommodating the increasing demands of renewable energy projects, particularly solar and wind farms that require a robust transmission grid. Finland’s target is to achieve carbon neutrality by 2035, in alignment with the broader goals of the European Union’s green transition, which is supported by significant EU recovery funding.

Regional impacts are notable, as local electricity companies must upgrade their connections to maximize the benefits from the Järvilinja. Savon Voima, which operates in Northern and Southern Savonia, is investing around €20 million in related endeavors due to inadequate current transmission capacity in areas like Iisalmi.

The enhanced capacity is expected to attract new industrial investments and renewable energy projects, such as those being developed by Abo Energy, which plans three wind farms in the region, pending local council approvals.