Helsinki Closes Last Coal Plant, Paves Way for Green Future
Key Ideas
- Helsinki closes its last coal-fired power plant, Salmisaari, reducing carbon emissions by 30% and marking a significant step towards a green future.
- The closure of Salmisaari, following the shutdown of Hanasaari B in 2023, contributes to a 43% decrease in the city's emissions and a 5% reduction in Finland's national CO₂ emissions.
- The city's energy supply will now rely on electrified systems using diverse renewable sources, such as heat pumps, electric boilers, bioenergy, wind, solar, and hydropower, ensuring sustainability.
- Helsinki's commitment to carbon neutrality by 2030, ahead of the EU's goal, includes future plans for net zero emissions by 2040 and carbon negativity beyond, with a focus on exploring green hydrogen through the 3H2 – Helsinki Hydrogen Hub project.
Helsinki has achieved a significant milestone by officially closing its last coal-fired power plant, Salmisaari, on April 1, 2025. This closure is a pivotal moment in the city's green transition and is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 30%, contributing to Helsinki's goal of becoming carbon neutral by 2030. The shutdown of Salmisaari, following the earlier closure of Hanasaari B in 2023, will lead to a 43% decrease in the city's emissions and a 5% reduction in Finland's national CO₂ emissions, showcasing Helsinki's commitment to climate leadership. The city will now shift its focus towards electrified systems using heat pumps, electric boilers, sustainable bioenergy, and renewable sources like wind, solar, and hydropower for its heating and electricity needs. Helen Ltd, the city's energy utility, has made significant investments in infrastructure to support this transition, including Europe's largest electric boiler and the world's largest heat pump. Additionally, Helsinki is exploring green hydrogen as part of its sustainable energy future. The 3H2 – Helsinki Hydrogen Hub project aims to start hydrogen production by 2026, leveraging Finland's clean energy strengths and attracting international investment. Deputy Mayor Anni Sinnemäki expressed the city's commitment to further sustainability goals, aiming for net zero emissions by 2040 and striving for carbon negativity beyond. Helsinki's bold steps towards a green future and its embrace of renewable energy sources set a positive example for cities worldwide.
Topics
Utilities
Renewable Energy
Sustainability
Carbon Emissions
Energy Infrastructure
Electricity
Carbon Neutrality
Green Transition
Climate Leadership
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