What is solar energy used for in Finland?

Solar energy in Finland is used primarily for water heating and by the use of photovoltaics to generate electricity. As a northern country, summer days are long and winter days are short. Above the Arctic Circle, the sun does not rise some days in winter, and does not set some days in the summer.

Should Finland invest in solar energy?

While the enthusiasm for solar in Finland is undeniable, question marks hang over the viability of rapid, profit-focused development. The solar energy sector requires substantial investment and expecting quick returns may not align with the realities of the industry.

Is solar energy a viable alternative to self-consumption in Finland?

In Finland, solar electricity has so far been a financially competitive alternative only if the self-consumption rate has been high. Now, however, the situation is changing, as solar farms are being built to produce electricity to sell directly to the main grid. Globally speaking, solar energy generation is a massive business.

Why is Finland a good country for solar energy?

In the summer, the long days and nearly round-the-clock sunlight compensate for the dark winters. This article's Finnish version was first published in February 2019 and has been updated in June 2023. "Finland’s advantage is its low atmospheric temperature, which improves the efficiency of solar photovoltaic cells.

What is Finland doing with solar technology?

Finland has made impressive strides in solar technology. For example, Solnet Group has invested heavily in research and development, leading to energy storage possibilities and grid optimization. These advancements are critical for optimizing grid operation and stabilizing energy consumption.

How much solar power does Finland produce in 2022?

The Finnish Energy Authority states that in 2022, solar power production amounted to nearly 635 megawatts – more than a 240 megawatt increase compared to the previous year. Finland still produces fairly little solar electricity compared to leading European countries. The Netherlands, in contrast, produce over seven times more per capita.