Downing Renewable Developments (DRD) has secured legally binding building permits (further to recently obtaining siting permits) for its 120MWp Relletinsuo Solar Project in Siikajoki, Northern Ostrobothnia, Finland.

The approval marks a significant step forward for the project and makes Relletinsuo the first DRD renewable energy project in Finland to reach this milestone.

Covering approximately 150 hectares, Relletinsuo is expected to have a generation capacity of around 120 MWp, co-located with a 40MW/160MWh battery energy storage system (BESS), making it one of the largest solar projects in Finland and the largest hybrid solar/storage project. The project is currently in the pre-construction phase, with construction expected to begin in summer 2027. Commercial operations are currently targeted to commence in Q4 2028.  

Tony Gannon, Head of Downing Renewable Developments, said:

"Relletinsuo marks another important step forward for our activities in the Nordics. We continue to see attractive opportunities in Finland and Sweden and are building our presence and project pipeline across the region."

Taina Hyppola, Head of Downing Renewable Developments Finland, said:

"Securing legally binding building permits for Relletinsuo represents an important milestone for the project and for Downing Renewable Developments in Finland. With 120MWp of planned solar generation alongside battery energy storage, the project demonstrates the scale of our ambitions in the Finnish market. We especially want to thank the municipality, landowners and neighbours and look forward to working with key project stakeholders such as the local communities as we progress Relletinsuo through the next stages of development towards construction."

The location of the Relletinsuo Solar Project supports the national land use objectives through maximising use of existing grid connection infrastructure, with an existing 110 kV transmission line being located immediately east of the project area.

The project will play a key role in supporting the green transition and at the same time supports Finland's goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2035. Relletinsuo Solar will represent a significant investment in the area and will boost to the region's economy, including through real estate tax revenue as well as DRD’s proposals to support the wider community. It will also have a significant impact on employment, especially during the construction phase. Solar power remains one of the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly ways to produce energy.

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