Ailangantunturi pumped storage power plant
We are continuing the preliminary planning of the pumped storage plant at Ailangantunturi in Kemijärvi. We are modelling and assessing the impacts of the construction and use of the Ailangantunturi pumped storage power plant. We are estimating the effects of pumped storage power plant on people and the environment.
Ailangantunturi pumped storage power plant
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Technical information
Technical information
Plant type: Pump turbine
Head potential: Approx. 200 metres
Capacity: 550 megawatts (MW)
Number of machinery: 3The size of the upper storage of the pumped storage power plant is around 1 square kilometre, while Kemijärvi works as the lower storage. The tunnel between the upper and lower storage is approximately 4−5 kilometres long and 9 metres wide. The pumped storage plant can be connected to the existing electricity main grid at the Pirttikoski power plant.
Towards a secure energy transition
The pumped-storage power plant we are planning at Ailangantunturi in Kemijärvi supports Finland’s clean energy transition and helps ensure the smooth functioning of everyday life in society. The plant will increase national energy storage capacity, strengthen security of supply, and support the growth of renewable energy.
We are working in close cooperation with the authorities on the project and are developing local stakeholder collaboration through continuous dialogue with the local community. Through this approach, we want to ensure that everyone affected by Finland’s first pumped-storage power plant is heard and receives comprehensive information.
Assessing the project’s impacts on the environment and people
The project is currently undergoing an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) procedure for both the pumped-storage power plant and the associated transmission line. The aim of the assessment is to reduce or completely prevent adverse environmental impacts and to improve access to information as well as opportunities for participation and influence for all stakeholders.
The environmental impact assessment has examined the project’s effects on surface waters, fishing and fish stocks and aquatic ecosystems, soil and bedrock, groundwater, vegetation, birdlife and habitat types, Natura 2000 sites and other protected areas, reindeer husbandry, local traffic, noise and vibration, climate and air quality, community structure and land use, landscape and cultural heritage, as well as people and society.
The Environmental Impact Assessment procedure is expected to be completed in spring 2026. It will serve as the basis for the permitting processes in the later stages of the project.
According to the preliminary schedule, construction of the Ailangantunturi pumped-storage power plant could begin at the earliest in 2029, with electricity production starting in 2032.