ASIATODAY.ID, HELSINKI – Finland is closing its last remaining coal-fired power and heating plant, marking a historic milestone in the country’s clean energy transition. This move will allow the energy company Helen to significantly reduce carbon emissions while also helping curb rising energy costs for consumers.
In recent years, Finland has rapidly expanded its renewable energy capacity, particularly in wind and solar power. This transformation has been driven by a landmark law passed in 2019 that mandates a full coal ban by 2029.
“Of course, we can’t guarantee that not a single gram of coal will ever be burned in Finland again—there are always emergency scenarios,” said Helen CEO Olli Sirkka on Monday, April 7, 2025. “But this is indeed the last coal power plant in Finland used for daily energy production.”
Transitioning to a Cleaner, Smarter Energy Mix
To replace the 175 MW of electricity and 300 MW of heating capacity previously generated by the now-shuttered Salmisaari plant, Helen will shift to electricity, waste heat, and heat pumps. The company will also continue to use pellets and wood chips temporarily, as part of a phased transition.
“In the long run, our goal is to eliminate all forms of combustion,” Sirkka added.
Carbon Emission Targets and Long-Term Vision
Helen, which is owned by the City of Helsinki, aims to reduce its emissions by 5% from 1990 levels by 2030 and completely phase out combustion by 2040.
Sirkka noted that Helen is the last major Finnish electricity producer to stop using coal, as it had previously lacked clean alternatives robust enough to meet the capital city’s energy demands.
Clean Energy Transition: Economic and Environmental Impact
While the transition hasn’t been cheap, Finland now boasts the third-most affordable electricity rates in Europe, trailing only Sweden and Norway. Helen estimates that average electric heating prices will fall by 5.8% this year alone.
The closure of the Salmisaari coal plant will allow Helen to cut its carbon dioxide emissions by 50% compared to last year, and reduce Finland’s total emissions by nearly 2%.
Finland Nearly Coal-Free
Environmental groups applaud the move, noting that Finland is now virtually coal-free. Only two small facilities still use coal, and one remains available for emergency use only. (AT Network)
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