Solar and wind power remain Finland's most popular forms of energy production
The Energy Attitudes Survey conducted by Energy Industry Association shows that Finns have a very positive attitude towards renewable energy. When it comes to solar power, 94% of respondents consider the current amount to be sufficient or would like to see it increase, while the corresponding figure for wind power is 88%. The most important energy policy goals for Finns are increasing energy self-sufficiency, reasonable electricity prices, and mitigating climate change. Fourth on the list is increasing the share of renewable energy in the energy system.
According to the Energy Attitudes survey conducted by Energy Industry Association, Finns have a positive attitude towards renewable energy, want to see its use increase, and hope that decision-makers will support the development of the sector. Eighty-three percent of respondents want more solar power, while 11 percent consider the current amount to be sufficient. When it comes to wind power, 69 percent want more construction, and 19 percent consider the current level to be appropriate.
"According to the survey, Finns want above all to increase energy self-sufficiency, have reasonable electricity prices, and mitigate climate change. Compared to last year, increasing the share of renewable energy has risen one notch in energy policy objectives and is now the fourth most important objective. Solar and wind power are the fastest and most realistic ways for Finland to meet all these expectations. That is why it is important to stick firmly to the growth conditions for renewable energy projects," says Anni Mikkonen, CEO of Finnish Renewable Energy.
Finland is going through a critical period, especially in terms of the development of the solar power sector. The government's new policy on land use, which requires solar parks larger than 50 hectares to be included in zoning plans, will significantly increase the costs of small and medium-sized projects and slow down their implementation. The policy reduces the power of municipalities in granting permits for local energy, when the direction should be the other way around – strengthening democracy close to the project. There are few incentives for solar power, so the role of effective and appropriate regulation is emphasized in enabling investment.
"Finns want more solar power, and the industry is now at a stage where this desire can be met. It is therefore essential that legislation supports development rather than hindering it – after all, we do not want to stifle the most popular form of electricity generation in Finland. The growth of solar power also represents a significant economic opportunity: Finland is well placed to build a strong domestic subcontracting chain, but this requires stable and appropriate rules," points out Klaara Tapper, Head of Renewable Energy Advocacy at Finland.
