The SuomiAreena event held in Pori in June highlighted Finland’s role as a reformer of the energy system and a pioneer in the hydrogen economy. Gasgrid and the Northern Finland NHR hydrogen pipeline project were prominently featured in discussions that addressed the importance of hydrogen infrastructure in the green transition and energy security.
Gasgrid participated in the Pori discussions through its own expert panel and in the Hydrogen Arena sessions. In the expert panels, Gasgrid’s CEO Olli Sipilä and Head of Hydrogen Valley and Customer Project Development Heli Virkki emphasized that Finland’s competitive advantage lies in the availability of clean electricity and a strong infrastructure. According to Sipilä, alongside electrification, other solutions—especially gases—are needed to build an energy system that is cost-effective, secure, and fossil-free.
From Gasgrid’s perspective, domestic biogas, synthetic methane, and hydrogen produced from electricity will form a central part of the future energy system. These solutions can enhance energy security and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
Hydrogen Arena: Vision, Responsibility, and Critical Infrastructure
Held for the third time at SuomiAreena, the Hydrogen Arena brought together decision-makers, experts, and industry representatives to discuss the opportunities of the hydrogen economy. Finland’s goal to produce 10 percent of Europe’s green hydrogen was seen as realistic, particularly due to the availability of clean electricity and stable societal structures. The emergence of a hydrogen market requires long-term cooperation and clear infrastructure development, which Gasgrid is promoting through the construction of a national hydrogen infrastructure.
Gasgrid plays an active role as an enabler of the hydrogen economy and energy system transformation. The company is developing infrastructure that connects hydrogen producers and users, while supporting market-driven development and investments. Gasgrid’s goal is to build a multi-gas system that supports sustainable development and energy security across Finland and the Baltic Sea region.