Finland Has Optimal Infrastructure for eFuel Production

With ambitious climate goals and optimal infrastructure for eFuel production, Finland positions itself as a key player in Europe’s green transformation. The country particularly relies on the use of wind energy and natural resources, technological innovation, and close international collaboration. Through these efforts, Finland aims to make a significant contribution to achieving the goals of the EU Industrial Plan for the Green Deal.

(Berlin/Helsinki) During a networking event at the Nordic Embassies in Berlin, experts discussed the country’s role in the production of sustainable fuels and its cooperation with German companies.

“Only through close international collaboration can we achieve European climate goals,” said Juha Peltomäki, Head of Industry Bio & Circular, Invest in Finland at Business Finland, in his speech at the networking event “Leading the way towards affordable eFuel production” at the Nordic Embassies on January 22. It is legally mandated in Finland that the country will be climate-neutral by 2035. A key component for achieving Finnish and European goals is the development and production of eFuels. “Synthetic fuels are an essential technology for hard-to-electrify sectors such as aviation,” said Peltomäki.

Ideal Conditions for eFuel Production

Finland already has ideal conditions in many ways to advance eFuel production on an industrial scale. The country has one of the fastest-growing wind energy infrastructures in Europe. By 2030, capacity is expected to triple, ensuring affordable and clean electricity for eFuel production. Additionally, the stable Finnish power grid can reliably supply even large production sites – and at a competitive price level. With around eight cents per kilowatt-hour, Finland ranks second in Europe, just behind Norway (6 cents, Germany: 22 cents). Furthermore, there is good availability of resources for hydrogen production as well as biogenic carbon sources from sustainable forestry. Finnish eFuel production also benefits from well-developed locations with appropriate logistical connections and qualified workers with experience in the process industry.

Partnerships Strengthen European Cooperation

Cooperation with companies from other countries underscores Finland’s importance as a European partner in the energy transition. INERATEC, a manufacturer of synthetic fuels from Karlsruhe, for example, established its first pilot plant in Espoo in 2016 in close collaboration with the Finnish research center VTT. Samantha Michaux, Business Development Manager at INERATEC, emphasizes the advantages of the Finnish location: “Finland has everything we need – there is green electricity, CO₂ sources, and plenty of space.”

eFuels represent a realistic solution, especially for aviation, to reduce CO₂ emissions. The EU regulation ReFuelEU Aviation requires significant shares of sustainable aviation fuels by 2050. Finland is taking a pioneering role: several large projects are currently being advanced here, including Total’s e-methanol plant in Kokkola and facilities from Norsk e-Fuel in Rauma and Imatra. Initial contracts with international airlines have already been signed.

Long-Term Vision for Finland and Europe

With its comprehensive approach to expanding eFuel production, Finland pursues a long-term vision: a sustainable Europe with significantly reduced dependence on fossil fuels. The country relies on technological innovation, large-scale infrastructure projects, and sustainable resource use. The current challenges regarding economic viability and energy efficiency are being addressed by scaling and technological advancements to quickly achieve competitive prices for eFuels. Peltomäki emphasizes: “The initial investments are necessary – but the long-term benefits for the environment and the economy clearly outweigh them.”

Foto: © Bernhard Ludewig