Photos of the construction and operation of the Björkliden Wind Farm
In mid-2024, seven wind turbines were commissioned in West Finland in the municipality of Närpes (Ostrobothnia region). The Björkliden Wind farm, in which Prokon holds 19.9% of the shares, has a total installed capacity of 41.3 MW. Prokon uses different models for the marketing of electricity from wind energy projects in Finland and Germany. In Finland, long-term Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) with companies are common. These PPAs ensure planning security and stable income through direct contracts with buyers in the private sector, facilitating the construction and operation of wind farms.
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The process of designating a wind farm area is a lengthy one and is similar to that in Germany. The wind farm areas are typically, as in Björkliden, owned by small private landowners. Based on negotiations, Prokon enters into long-term lease agreements with the owners. Once the area is leased, Prokon initiates the procedures for environmental impact assessments and land use planning with the authorities. During this process, Prokon develops potential designs, which are presented to the public for review. Finally, the local council decides on the size of the wind farm area.
Björkliden is in a certain way connected to the Hedet wind farm, in which Prokon also holds a 19.9% stake. Hedet was built between 2018 and 2019. However, there was not enough grid capacity for both wind farms, which is why Björkliden had to wait until 2021 for another grid connection agreement with the regional power grid company to be signed.
In general, environmental protection regulations for wind farms in Finland are not as strict as in Germany. However, to ensure that the Björkliden wind farm meets not only the legal requirements but also the expectations of the involved stakeholders, Prokon voluntarily applied for an environmental permit. The local environmental authority reviews annually whether the operation and impacts of the wind farm comply with the established conditions.
Here you can find a step-by-step explanation of how to build a wind turbine
Find out more about the construction of the Oldendorf wind farm here