Reader opinion The price of clean energy is high

Opinion|Reader’s opinion

Central Chamber of Commerce CEO Juho Romakkaniemi estimates (HS Opinion 9.2.) that Finland could be a major power in zero-emission electricity in the future. Former Prime Minister Juha Sipilä declared (Kaleva 25.1.) that Finland should be turned into an oil state by wind power. Influencers believe wind construction should be “streamlined,” as four of the five wind farm formulas end up in administrative court.

There seems to be a background Sitra’s last autumn scenario. It is an estimate made using international modeling that takes into account the benefits of wind construction but ignores the overall impact. This is a major shortcoming.

According to Sitra, Finland’s electricity production will triple in 30 years. In 2050, about 70 percent of electricity would be generated by wind power.

Significantly more power plants would be needed. The total price of clean energy would be tough. Where are the deepest principles of sustainable development, reducing consumption and living in harmony with nature forgotten?

Such a radical increase in wind power would explode problems and lawsuits. People are already desperate for being powerless in the face of projects. Among other things, the mills have a concrete noise and noise nuisance – the decline in the value of real estate is a clear indicator of this. Wind farms ruin natural and cultural landscapes and produce frost for tourism and ecosystems.

Instead of restricting civil rights, a separate wind power law should be enacted that would define the boundaries of activity fairly. According to the Constitution, “public authorities must strive to guarantee everyone the right to a healthy environment and the opportunity to influence decisions concerning their living environment”.

The Constitution provides for the safety of citizens. Only on it can a sustainable future be built, respecting people and nature.

Antti Saari

Kokkola

Reader opinions are speeches written by HS readers, selected and delivered by HS’s editorial staff. You can leave a comment or read the principles of writing at www.hs.fi/kirjtamielipidekirjoitus/.