IEA commends renewables’ role in Finnish policy

The International Energy Agency (IEA) has praised the Finnish Government’s energy policies and its commitment to a sustainable energy future. It said Finland’s energy policy framework is “broad and coherent” […]

The International Energy Agency (IEA) has praised the Finnish Government’s energy policies and its commitment to a sustainable energy future.

It said Finland’s energy policy framework is “broad and coherent” covering all sectors, which includes an ambitious renewable energy programme as it aims to generate 38% of its energy from renewables by 2020.

Maria van der Hoeven, IEA’s Executive Director said: “Finland is highly dependent on imported fossil fuels, making security of supply a priority. Commendably, the Government’s principal long-term energy security goal is clearly tied to another key pillar of its energy policy – the decarbonisation of its economy, largely by developing cleaner means of energy production and consumption.”

Finland also aims to expand its nuclear capacity and if all planned projects are completed, the share of electricity produced by nuclear could double by 2025, reaching around 60%.

The report ‘Energy Policies of IEA Countries – Finland 2013 Review’ also highlights serious concerns about potential EU legislation regarding the sustainability of biomass. Finland is said to be the most forested country in Europe and biomass will play a central role in meeting the country’s renewable target but the IEA suggests EU rules could bring a “great deal of administrative burden” for sustainability certification schemes.

Among the recommendations, the IEA calls for Finland to ensure a sustained drive to build on energy efficiency improvements, especially in the transport sector and the development of a regional gas market.

ELN previously reported Finland could stop using coal as part of its energy production by 2025.

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