Volts
What's up with clean energy in Finland?
Apr 11, 2025
Helena Sarén, Head of the Zero Carbon Future mission at Business Finland and a veteran in the clean energy sector, shares insights on Finland's remarkable journey to nearly 95% carbon-neutral electricity. She discusses Finland's pragmatic embrace of nuclear power and its ambitious goal for carbon neutrality by 2035. Helena highlights the synergy between industry and government in pushing for aggressive climate targets, and how Finland navigates energy independence amid geopolitical tensions. The conversation uncovers innovative energy solutions and sustainable forestry practices shaping the future.
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Quick takeaways
- Finland's ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2035 reflects its proactive approach to renewable energy investment and technological innovation.
- The country's pragmatic reliance on nuclear power, supported by public acceptance and a robust waste management solution, underscores its strategy for reducing carbon emissions.
Deep dives
Finland's Energy Mix and Decarbonization Goals
Finland has established itself as a leader in clean energy, with nearly 95% of its electricity produced from carbon-neutral sources, primarily nuclear, wind, hydro, and biomass. The government has set ambitious goals for achieving full carbon neutrality by 2035 and aims for carbon negativity by 2050. Significant progress has been made in reducing reliance on fossil fuels, with coal contributing only 1.5% of the energy mix, and most energy utilities planning to phase it out before the 2029 deadline. The country’s commitment to sustainability is reflected in its comprehensive climate and energy strategy, which emphasizes the need for investments in renewable energy infrastructure and innovative technologies.
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