Metsähallitus has submitted plans for a Finnish project with a capacity of up to 230MW, located in the southern part of Leppävirta municipality.
The region’s technical board is expected to discuss the proposals on 24 January 2023.
The preliminary project area also extends to the area of Joroinen municipality.
The goal is that the planning initiative for the Korpisenkanka wind power development will also be discussed in Joroinen from the beginning of the year.
Metsähallitus wind power expert Jono Lehto said: “The wind power project is tentatively planned to consist of a total of approximately 10–23 wind turbines (unit power 6MW to 10MW), whose total height is a maximum of 320 metres.
“Our principle is that the distance of the machines to the nearest permanent and leisure settlement is at least 1.5km.
“With this distance and careful project planning, it is ensured that the noise and flickering effects from the turbines on the nearest settlements will be minimal.
“We estimate that the partial master plan for the site could be approved during 2025, after which building permits would be applied for the wind farms.
“At this stage, Metsähallitus will sell the project and the buyer could start construction of the facility during 2026–2027, and the site could be put into use approximately between 2028–2030.”
The final area delimitation of the zoning, the placement areas of the wind turbines within the planning area, the final number and total height of the machines, as well as the power line route needed to connect to the grid will be specified during the planning process.
Mayot of Leppävirta Matti Raatikainen said: “In the municipality, we have an extremely positive attitude towards the Metsähallitus project.
“The project strengthens Finland’s energy self-sufficiency and affects the availability of electricity and the price of electricity for every Finn.”