This year has been eventful for Metsähallitus’ offshore wind team. In the Ebba and Edith projects, we have advanced preparations for the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) program, continued bird monitoring, and mapped alternative electricity transmission routes and suitable landfall points. Metsähallitus is preparing to publish the EIA programs in 2026.
Meanwhile, the joint offshore wind project by Vattenfall and Metsähallitus in Korsnäs has moved from the EIA program phase to the EIA report phase, in which the environmental impacts of project alternatives are assessed. At present, modellings to support the assessment and final project specific studies are underway. These include a resident survey, which remains open until the end of the year.
Our offshore wind team has grown since the beginning of the year with two new colleagues. Annina Hästö joined as Head of Offshore Wind, responsible for leading Metsähallitus’ offshore wind business operations. Anna Lehto came on board as Wind Power Specialist for the Korsnäs project, focusing on stakeholder relations and communications.
Ebba and Edith Projects moving forward
Metsähallitus launched a tendering process for the Ebba and Edith offshore wind projects planned within Finland’s territorial waters in November 2023. The goal was to find commercial partners to acquire project rights, lease the sea areas from the state, and build and operate offshore wind farms. This tendering round concluded without a partner being selected. Metsähallitus continues developing and zoning the projects and will bring them to the market at a later stage.
Offshore Wind has a significant role in the energy transition
While the global market for offshore wind projects is currently facing challenges, the growing demand for electricity is undeniable and offshore wind will play a crucial role in meeting that demand. The green transition is steadily advancing, and industrial processes are being electrified at an accelerating pace. Offshore wind provides stable, emission-free electricity and plays a key role in achieving climate targets. In addition, offshore wind strengthens energy self-sufficiency, supports industrial competitiveness, and creates significant investment opportunities and jobs. Metsähallitus is committed to advancing sustainable Finnish energy production, supporting the state’s carbon neutrality targets, and enhancing regional vitality.
An exciting year ahead!
Next year, projects Ebba and Edith will host public hearings as part of the EIA program phase. We are also participating in local events and sector gatherings. In Korsnäs, we will continue the preparation of the EIA report and the draft zoning plan, as well as maintain our Vind Café tradition. We will share updates on project development in our upcoming newsletters throughout 2026.