The Finish state agency Metsähallitus has outlined 2 offshore wind areas to be put up for auction this fall, preparing additional 3 for next year
The lease areas on offer for phase 1 of the Finnish offshore wind auctions have been set, mapping out 3 GW to be awarded. Earlier this year, it was announced that the Finnish government was assessing 7 different sites for offshore wind development. The 7 areas have been narrowed down to 5, and Finland now plans on hosting auction rounds in two phases, with the first round scheduled for Q3 2023. The first phase will open for bids on 2 of the sites:
- (Zone 3) Pyhäjok-Raahe: Ostrobothnia region, rated capacity 1250 MW, max 83 turbines
- (Zone 4) Närpio: Northern Ostrobothnia region, rated capacity 1800 MW, max 120 turbines
Zoning initiatives for both sites have gained approval from the local municipalities and have now been approved, clearing the path for this fall’s rounds. Metsähallitus is pre-developing the areas, as well as being responsible for the sale of the project rights and the leasing of the offshore wind areas.
Finland aims to award a total of 6 GW of offshore wind projects, with an additional 3 sites expected to be put up for auction in phase 2, by end of 2024.
Further details on the auction rounds are expected later this year.
Image source: Metsähallitus, Vattenfall
