Project development started in spring 2024, led by project development partner P2X Solutions. The preliminary planning of the hydrogen production plant has advanced according to schedule.

“In the preliminary planning phase, we have focused especially on matters related to the plant’s location, conducting commercial feasibility studies, and impact assessments. Later on, we will decide when to proceed to the feasibility planning phase, which involves more detailed technical, commercial, and financial development,” shares Herkko Plit, CEO of P2X Solutions.

The planned location for the hydrogen production plant is the Laanila industrial area, where Oulun Energia already operates two combined heat and power plants. Oulun Energia is initiating an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) procedure to evaluate the placement of the hydrogen production plant in Laanila. The EIA procedure assesses the project’s potential impacts during both construction and operation, including effects on air quality, noise levels, waterways, traffic, landscape, soil, as well as human health, living conditions, and comfort, among other things. The purpose of the EIA is to produce information that supports project decision-making and to enhance citizens’ access to information and opportunities for input.

The North Ostrobothnia Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment will make the EIA and the subsequent report, prepared by Oulun Energia, available for public review, allowing for the submission of opinions and statements. The Centre will provide separate notifications regarding this process. Public events will be organised as part of the EIA procedure for the hydrogen project, during which project representatives will provide detailed information about the operation and potential impacts of the hydrogen production plant. A more detailed schedule for the public events will be specified at a later date.

“We are creating an entirely new type of business in the area, where leveraging synergy benefits is a key focus. Laanila is a very interesting location for the plant, given the area’s established chemical industry and experience in the utilisation of hydrogen. In addition to the planned production of green hydrogen, the biogenic chimney gas produced by the power plants could be utilised for further hydrogen refinement, while the surplus heat from the processes could be easily utilised in our district heating network. With the EIA process now being launched, we are engaging in meaningful dialogue with local residents and operators and ensuring that environmental considerations are fully integrated into the project planning,” shares Kimmo Alatulkkila, responsible for Oulun Energia’s new business operations.

Oulun Energia’s hydrogen project is significant in scale, both for Oulu and for Finland as a whole. If realised, it has the potential to boost the vitality of the Oulu region and create new businesses and jobs. The project is expected to require approximately 250 person-years of direct labour during construction, with an additional 350 person-years of indirect employment effects. Upon completion of the project, it is expected to create approximately 100 new jobs. The goal is to make an investment decision regarding the construction of the hydrogen production plant in 2025, with hydrogen production starting in 2028 at the earliest.