Hydropower renovation project
Hydropower renovation project increasing the capacity
The hydropower renovation and efficiency programme VESPA proceeded according to plan in 2009. The renovation of Haapakoski hydropower plant on the Iijoki river was completed in April before the spring floods. The next target in December was the Maalismaa power plant, where the renovation started with the renewal of the second machine unit.
The hydropower renovation and efficiency programme VESPA proceeded according to plan in 2009. The renovation of Haapakoski hydropower plant on the Iijoki river was completed in April before the spring floods. The next target in December was the Maalismaa power plant, where the renovation started with the renewal of the second machine unit.
Kollaja EIA completed
The environmental impact assessment for Kollaja reservoir and power plant has been completed. The EIA project was initiated in the spring 2007 after the regional energy programme of Northern Ostrobothnia had recommended it and the envisaged substantial increase in hydropower had been indicated in the government programme of the present Finnish Government.
The EIA process was completed in October 2009 when the coordinating authority issued its statement on the EIA report. According to the statement, the project significantly deteriorates the level of Natura conservation in Pudasjärvi. The statement does not constitute a final obstacle to the project as long as it can be implemented in a manner that abides by Natura conservation. However, the implementation of the Kollaja project would require a reform of the Rapids Protection Act.