As interest in solar power grows, so does the need for smooth and competent project development. Oomi Solar works closely with landowners, businesses and investors to ensure that every project runs smoothly from planning to implementation.
Solar power and batteries – the cornerstones of renewable energy
Typical projects in which Oomi Solar is involved relate to solar power and energy storage. These projects often involve industrial-scale solutions – solar farms or large battery systems that can be connected directly to the electricity grid.
“In practice, we are talking about dozens or even hundreds of hectares. We carry out preliminary studies to see where it is possible and profitable to build such power plants. The aim is to develop a complete package with permits and ready for construction,” says Business Director Arttu Raitala.
The project process covers the whole chain from landowner to investor
Project development starts with a preliminary study to assess the suitability of the site for energy production. The most important criteria are connectivity to the electricity grid, the soil in the area, accessibility and any potential environmental or landscape impacts.
“We start talking to the landowners at an early stage. The projects cannot move forward without an agreement on leasing or purchasing the land,” says Account Manager Petri Pyyny.
Customers often include energy companies, infrastructure funds and institutional investors. Oomi can develop projects directly for customers or build them into its own balance sheet and sell them as ready-made packages.
Challenges are solved as part of the process
The challenges of project development are often related to permit acquisition and official practices, which vary from municipality to municipality.
“Each project is different. For example, with the new Building Act, municipal building inspectors’ levels of knowledge still vary at this stage, and many municipalities have no previous experience of granting permits to solar power plants,” says Raitala.
Changes in legislation and the electricity market also have an impact: the requirements of Fingrid and network companies may change at short notice.
Solar energy is also suitable for smaller operators
While solar power is often perceived as the domain of large operators, its strength lies in its scalability.
“Smaller companies can also participate, even in a single project with multiple other participants. Solar energy is exceptional in that smaller projects can sometimes even be more profitable than large ones,” Raitala notes.
Technology is developing rapidly: solar panel prices have fallen, efficiency has improved and the role of batteries in the market is growing.
“The panels last for up to 40 years. The investment is long-term and predictable, especially if the electricity is sold under a long-term PPA,” says Pyyny.
The need for renewable energy is constantly growing, for example due to the hydrogen economy and data centres. Forecasts clearly indicate that electricity production and demand will grow significantly in Finland.
“Solar power is one of the most profitable forms of energy production, and solutions developed to complement it, such as batteries, bring flexibility. These can be used to replace fossil energy in a sustainable way,” Raitala sums up.