OX2 starts planning procedures for wind farms offshore Finland

OX2 is preparing to start the environmental impact assessment (EIA) process for two offshore wind power projects in the Gulf of Bothnia Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZ).

Both are in the Finnish EEZ close to the border with Sweden. Project Halla is west of the island of Hailuoto while project Laine is west of the city of Pietarsaari.

OX2 plans large-scale offshore wind farms of up to 160 wind turbines. However, the projects are currently in a very early stage, so electricity production would only start at the end of this decade.

Halla’s location close to Raahe could provide opportunities for cooperation with SSAB, a manufacturer looking to produce fossil-free steel and currently planning for a new reinforced connection to the national grid for its mill in Raahe.

In addition to the EIA, OX2 needs a special exploration permit for the commencement of seabed surveys in the offshore EEZ.

Source: Offshore Magazine